devastate
verb (used with object)
to lay waste; render desolate.
is devastating
-
present progressiveof devastate (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate 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.
The fact that this story from 1948 is 100% relevant in 2026 is devastating.
From Salon ● Jul. 14, 2026
Financial literacy just hit a 10-year low — and it is devastating bank accounts.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 8, 2026
The statement from Priory City of Lincoln Academy said: "This loss is devastating and our entire Priory Lincoln learning community is grieving alongside Declan's family and friends."
From BBC ● May 25, 2026
Feeling like this milestone was within reach, only to have it slip away because of the pressure you’re being put under to choose another property, is devastating.
From MarketWatch ● Apr. 3, 2026
His scorn for boys who give a hoot about how they look is devastating.
From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood
