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Devastated - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Devastated means extremely shocked, saddened, or overwhelmed by a severe loss, disaster, or disappointment. It describes deep emotional distress, as if one’s world has been shattered.

devastated

/ˈdɛvəˌsteɪtɪd/ /ˈdɛvəsteɪtɪd/

Definition:

Overwhelmed with shock or grief; utterly destroyed or ruined.

Synonyms:

heartbroken, crushed, shattered, desolate

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

elated, joyful

Common Collocations:

completely devastated, emotionally devastated, utterly devastated

Derivatives:

devastate, devastating, devastation

Usage Tips:

Use "devastated" to describe extreme emotional distress or physical destruction, often after a tragic event.

Common Phrases:

devastated by the news, left devastated, look devastated

Etymology:

From Latin *devastare*, meaning "to lay waste," from *de-* (thoroughly) + *vastare* (to ravage).

Examples:

  • 1. The hurricane devastated the coastal town overnight.
  • 2. She was devastated after losing her beloved pet.
  • 3. The team felt devastated by their last-minute defeat.
  • 4. The fire devastated acres of forest and wildlife.

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