What does decimation mean?
Decimation refers to the act of reducing something, typically a population or workforce, by a significant proportion, often by a tenth. This term carries a strong connotation of severity and magnitude, implying a drastic and often devastating impact. In modern usage, decimation can refer to any severe reduction, not just one that is exactly a tenth. The word is commonly used in contexts such as economics, ecology, and military history. Understanding decimation helps in grasping the extent of impact of events like economic crises, natural disasters, or conflicts on populations or systems.
nounThe act of decimating, or reducing something by a tenth. A severe reduction in number or amount.
- The act of reducing something by a tenth
- A severe reduction in number or amount
"The company's workforce suffered decimation after the economic downturn."
"The company's workforce suffered decimation after the economic downturn."
"The decimation of the population due to disease was devastating."
The plural form is used for multiple instances or types of decimation.
"The decimations caused by the two economic crises were compared in the study."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of decimation
The term decimation originates from the Latin 'decimare', which means 'to reduce by a tenth'. This Latin term is derived from 'decem', meaning 'ten'. Historically, decimation was a form of military punishment where a unit would be divided into ten parts, and one part would be executed. The practice was used by the Roman legions as a severe disciplinary measure.
Usage notes
Formal or technical contexts often use decimation. It implies a significant and severe reduction.