Dilapidate

/dɪˈlæpɪˌdeɪt/ verb

Definition

To fall into disrepair; to become damaged, deteriorated, or ruined.

Etymology

From Latin dilapidatus, past participle of dilapidare (to squander, waste), from di- (apart) + lapidare (to pelt with stones, from lapis, stone). The meaning shifted from 'to destroy by throwing stones' to 'to waste or ruin.'

Kelly Says

The word's etymology hints at ancient punishment—dilapidation originally meant literal destruction by stone-throwing, which evolved into the metaphorical sense of any kind of ruin or decay we see today.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.