Dilapidated - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Definition:
In poor condition due to neglect or age, often describing buildings or objects.
Synonyms:
decrepit, run-down, shabby, ramshackle, crumbling
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
pristine, well-maintained, refurbished
Common Collocations:
dilapidated building, dilapidated house, dilapidated furniture, dilapidated bridge
Derivatives:
dilapidation, dilapidate (verb)
Usage Tips:
Use "dilapidated" for structures or objects showing severe disrepair from neglect or long use.
Common Phrases:
fall into disrepair, on its last legs, gone to rack and ruin
Etymology:
From Latin "dilapidare," meaning "to squander or destroy," originally referring to wasting stones from buildings.
Examples:
- 1. The old barn was dilapidated after years of abandonment.
- 2. They explored the dilapidated mansion cautiously, avoiding loose floorboards.
- 3. The city plans to demolish the dilapidated factory next month.
- 4. Her car looked so dilapidated that no one wanted to buy it.