deindustrialize

American  

[dee-in-duhs-tree-uh-lahyz] / ˌdi ɪnˈdʌs tri əˌlaɪz /

especially British; deindustrialise or de-industrialize

verb (used with object)

deindustrialized, deindustrializing

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.

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verb (used without object)

deindustrialized, deindustrializing

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

deindustrialize British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• deindustrialization noun

Etymology

Origin of deindustrialize

First recorded in 1880–85; de- + industrialize

Example Sentences

Morgenthau’s plan to demilitarize and deindustrialize Germany was seized upon by the failing Nazi regime as a propaganda tool, and the Truman administration ultimately rejected it.

From Salon • Mar. 25, 2026

I watched the shoreline deindustrialize from waterfront developments to pristine forests.

From Washington Post • Oct. 3, 2019