Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But Dutch elm disease, an invasive fungus spread by bark beetles to which the native trees had no defense, has decimated the elm by tens of millions across the continent.

From Salon • Jun. 15, 2025

But one of the severest droughts in decades - caused by the El Niño weather phenomenon - has decimated Zambia’s power-generation capacity.

From BBC • Oct. 2, 2024

For example, warming temperatures have enabled pests such as bark beetles to survive through the winter and expand their range, which has decimated Western forests.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2024

But a growing demand for the gelatin has decimated donkey populations at such alarming rates in African countries that governments are now moving to put a brake on the mostly unregulated trade.

From New York Times • Feb. 23, 2024

Let us hope that when Northern Yankeedom has decimated and been decimated, blustering Jonathan may fling himself upon his Southern brother's breast, forgiving and forgiven.

From Lady Audley's Secret by Braddon, M. E. (Mary Elizabeth)