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.

Palm oil has long been associated with deforestation, and both Eni and Neste have officially removed it from their supply chains.

From Barron's • Mar. 16, 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

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

They were already established long before widespread deforestation during British rule.

From Science Daily • Feb. 1, 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