deplete

IPA

Dictionary definition of deplete

To reduce the quantity of something, often in a significant or drastic way.
"The drought will deplete the reservoir if it doesn't rain soon."

Detailed meaning of deplete

The term is commonly used in relation to natural resources, such as mineral deposits, water, or forests, which can be depleted by overuse or exploitation. For example, overfishing can deplete the populations of fish in a particular area, and overuse of groundwater can deplete aquifers. Deplete can also refer to the reduction of stocks or supplies, such as food, fuel, or medical supplies. It can also be used to refer to the reduction of a person's energy, strength, or resources, such as "the long hike depleted his energy." The term implies that the quantity of something has been reduced to a point where it is no longer sufficient or adequate, and that additional efforts will be required to replenish it.

Example sentences containing deplete

1. Prolonged drought can deplete water reservoirs, causing supply shortages.
2. Excessive logging can deplete forests and harm ecosystems.
3. Overfishing threatens to deplete marine populations to dangerous levels.
4. Mismanagement of resources can deplete a nation's wealth.
5. Heavy spending can deplete your savings if not managed wisely.
6. Pollution can deplete the ozone layer, leading to environmental issues.

History and etymology of deplete

The verb 'deplete' has its roots in Latin, specifically from the word 'deplere,' which means 'to empty' or 'to drain.' It is formed by combining 'de,' meaning 'completely,' and 'plere,' meaning 'to fill.' Thus, 'deplete' originally conveyed the idea of completely emptying or draining something. As the word made its way into English, it retained this fundamental meaning but took on the broader sense of reducing the quantity of something, often in a significant or drastic way. The etymology of 'deplete' highlights the concept of thorough reduction or emptying, emphasizing the action of diminishing a resource or supply until it is notably reduced or nearly exhausted.

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Further usage examples of deplete

1. The ongoing war has the potential to deplete the country's manpower.
2. High consumption of sugary drinks can deplete your energy levels.
3. Frequent use of antibiotics can deplete your body's natural defenses.
4. Rapid urbanization can deplete open spaces and natural habitats.
5. It's essential to plant trees to combat deforestation and deplete carbon emissions.
6. Overfishing in the area may deplete the fish population.
7. The constant use of air conditioning can deplete energy resources.
8. The marathon runner needs to eat properly so as not to deplete his energy reserves.
9. The mining activities will deplete the mineral resources in the region.
10. The extensive farming practices could deplete the soil of its nutrients.
11. The town's water supply will deplete if residents do not conserve water.
12. Using too many natural resources too quickly can deplete them for future generations.
13. The rapid growth of the city might deplete the availability of affordable housing.
14. Running too many electrical appliances at once can deplete the power grid.
15. If the government doesn't act, the economic crisis will deplete the country's reserves.
16. The constant stress can deplete your mental energy over time.
17. The invasive species will deplete the native plants if left unchecked.
18. The overuse of antibiotics can deplete their effectiveness against infections.
19. The heavy traffic can deplete the air quality in urban areas.
20. The athlete needs to manage his effort during the race so as not to deplete his stamina.
21. Using chemical fertilizers extensively will deplete the natural fertility of the soil.
22. The prolonged conflict could deplete the country's food and medical supplies.
23. The excessive withdrawal of groundwater may deplete the aquifers.
24. Frequent withdrawals from your savings account will quickly deplete your funds.