Meaning & Definition of word "Wasteland"

Wasteland

/ˈweɪstˌlænd/

noun:

  • 1. A barren or uncultivated area of land.
    • Example: The old factory was surrounded by a wasteland of rusted machinery and debris.
  • 2. An area that is bleak, desolate, or devoid of life.
    • Example: After the drought, the once thriving farm had become a wasteland.
  • 3. A situation characterized by a lack of progress or productivity.
    • Example: The project turned into a wasteland of wasted resources and missed deadlines.

Etymology

From Middle English wasteland, from wast (barren) + land.

Common Phrases and Expressions

wasteland mentality:

A state of hopelessness or despair where no positive action is taken.

emotional wasteland:

A state of emotional numbness or lack of feelings.

Related Words

desolation:

A state of complete emptiness or destruction.

abandonment:

The action or fact of abandoning or being abandoned.

Slang Meanings of wasteland

Meaning: A situation that feels hopeless or without promise.

Example Sentence: After failing the exam again, I feel like I'm in a total wasteland right now.

Meaning: An area that is not thriving or is neglected.

Example Sentence: That part of town is a real wasteland; there's nothing to do there.