Desolate

/ˈdɛsəˌleɪt/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To make a place empty or bare; to lay waste.

The flood desolated the town, leaving only ruins behind.

adjective

Deserted and bleak; showing the effects of abandonment or emptiness.

The desolate landscape stretched for miles, void of any signs of life.

Feeling or showing great sadness or emptiness.

She felt desolate after losing her best friend.

From Latin 'desolatus', past participle of 'desolar', meaning 'to abandon'.

desolate landscape

A barren or empty area, devoid of life.

desolate heart

A feeling of profound sadness or emptiness.

desolate situation

A circumstance that is unfortunate and devoid of hope.

desolation

The state of being desolate; a state of complete emptiness or destruction.

desolate land

Land that is barren and uninhabited.

desolately

In a manner that is deserted or devoid of life.

Feeling extremely sad or lonely.

After his breakup, he felt totally desolate.

An area that is lifeless or lacking excitement.

This party is so desolate; nobody's dancing.