Synonyms for

Devastation

Verb / ˌdevʌˈsteɪʃʌn / Another word for devastation — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Devastation means great destruction or damage.

Synonyms & similar words

destruction desolation ravaging destruction ruin wreckage damage desolation ravage annihilation demolition obliteration catastrophe disaster tragedy havoc calamity misery distress suffering affliction tribulation torment

Synonyms by register

Formal

destruction ruin annihilation depredation

Informal

wreckage mess havoc

Literary

desolation ravage

Antonyms

creation construction building development preservation restoration improvement

Common collocations

  • widespread devastation
  • utter devastation
  • economic devastation
  • environmental devastation
  • devastation of the city
  • devastation caused by
  • after the devastation

Word family

noun devastation
verb devastate
adjective devastating
adverb devastatingly

Usage note

Devastation refers to extreme destruction and damage, often on a large scale. It carries a strong negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The hurricane caused a lot of devastation to the coastal towns.
  2. The fire left behind a scene of devastation.
  3. The war resulted in widespread devastation across the country.
  4. The earthquake caused devastation to the city's infrastructure.
  5. The flood caused devastation to the farmlands.

Quotes

  • 'Devastation is sometimes necessary to create something new.' - Sonya Hartnett
  • 'Devastation is a form of demolition. And after demolition, there is always a rebuilding.' - Khaled Hosseini
  • 'The brightest of flames are often sparked by the greatest of devastations.' - Matshona Dhliwayo

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