deforestation

[dee-fawr-uh-stey-shuhn, for-] / ˌdi fɔr əˈsteɪ ʃən, fɒr- /

NOUN

clear-cutting

Synonyms

STRONGEST

desertification erosion logging

WEAK

denuding

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Much of that deforestation happened in areas with government permits, and it is not clear that transferring operations to the state will improve matters.

From Barron's • Feb. 19, 2026

And there is no sign yet that other projects linked to large-scale deforestation, including a food and energy plantation plan in South Papua, will be halted in this drive.

From Barron's • Feb. 19, 2026

While it is true that Rapa Nui experienced widespread deforestation, many studies now question whether this led to societal collapse.

From Science Daily • Feb. 10, 2026

BBC News has recently documented uncovered toxic waste ponds, deforestation and soil erosion at rare earth mines in Northern China.

From BBC • Feb. 5, 2026

By around 5,000 years ago, pollen analyses testify to widespread deforestation of highland valleys, suggesting forest clearance for agriculture.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond