devastate
verb (used with object)
to lay waste; render desolate.
has devastated
-
present perfectof devastate (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
This is not currently happening in the U.S., but since it has devastated other countries, I was eager to speak with someone who had experienced that worst-case scenario firsthand.
From Slate ● Sep. 20, 2026
Serbian authorities said late Friday they were battling 25 serious forest fires, including one which has devastated 25 square kilometres of land at the Deliblatska national park near Belgrade.
From Barron's ● Aug. 15, 2026
His sudden death has devastated his family and fellow car enthusiasts.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 9, 2026
Iran’s economic stagnation has worsened with a war that has devastated much of its infrastructure and may soon crater the oil industry.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 19, 2026
“Do you know how much this has devastated my daughter?”
From "Out of My Mind" by Sharon M. Draper
