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Definition of defoliate

defoliate

/diːˈfoʊliˌeɪt/
de · fo · li · ate
Adjective:defoliate
•
Past Simple:defoliated
•
Past Participle:defoliated
•
Present Participle:defoliating
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defoliate Lexical Profile

defoliate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To strip or deprive a tree, plant, or forest of its leaves, especially by chemical agents, pests, or disease.

Example

"Invasive caterpillars can defoliate entire stands of oak trees within a few weeks."

2

To lose or shed leaves prematurely or seasonally (of a plant or tree).

Example

"When subjected to prolonged frost, even hardy citrus trees may begin to defoliate."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adjective

1

Deprived of or having lost its leaves (of a plant, tree, or forest).

Example

"The once-lush valley was left barren and defoliate after the severe summer drought."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for defoliate

• Rhymes for defoliate

• Nearby Words

defog
defogger
defoliant
defoliate
deforest
deforestation
deforester

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 18th century from Late Latin defoliatus, the past participle of defoliare ('to strip of leaves'), formed from the prefix de- ('off, away') and folium ('leaf').

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Defoliate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/defoliate
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