desolate
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.
It is the novel’s desolate mood, finally, and Ms. McPherson’s evocation of a melancholy landscape that anchor both her plot and her heroine.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026
West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo was desolate, insisting everyone in the game is now confused as to what constituted a foul in the penalty area at set-pieces.
From BBC • May 10, 2026
Although stretches of the opposite riverbank appeared "desolate", he said, "it's a lot more developed than I thought".
From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026
PHOENIX—On a desolate stretch of land dotted with cactuses some 30 minutes north of Phoenix, more than 30 cranes tower over a construction site 2½ times the size of New York City’s Central Park.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 24, 2026
It was obvious to any outsider that Cange needed some kind of community health system, but the place was so desolate that it was hard to know where to start.
From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French
![]()
Vocabulary lists containing desolate
Figurative Language in King's "I Have a Dream" Speech (1963)
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" Speech (1963)
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Zilch, Zip, Nada: Words For Nothing
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!