deindustrialize

or de-in·dus·tri·al·ize

[ dee-in-duhs-tree-uh-lahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, de·in·dus·tri·al·ized, de·in·dus·tri·al·iz·ing.

1. to cause to lose industrial capability or strength; make less industrial in character or emphasis.
2. to deprive (a conquered nation) of the means or potential for industrial growth.

verb (used without object)

, de·in·dus·tri·al·ized, de·in·dus·tri·al·iz·ing.

1. to lose industrial capability or character; become deindustrialized.

deindustrialize

/ ˌdiːɪnˈdʌstrɪəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. tr to reduce the importance of manufacturing industry in the economy of (a nation or area)
2. intr (of a nation or area) to undergo reduction in the importance of manufacturing industry in the economy

Other Words From

• dein·dustri·al·i·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of deindustrialize¹

First recorded in 1880–85; de- + industrialize