demolition

[ dem-uh-lish-uhn, dee-muh- ]

noun

1. an act or instance of demolishing.
2. the state of being demolished; destruction.
3. destruction or demolishment by explosives.
4. demolitions, explosives, especially as used in war.

adjective

1. of, relating to, or working with explosives:

   A demolition squad attempted to blow up the bridge before the enemy captured it.

2. of or relating to tearing down or demolishing:

   Demolition work had begun on the old building.

demolition

/ ˌdiː-; ˌdɛməˈlɪʃən /

noun

1. the act of demolishing or state of being demolished
2. military
   1. destruction by explosives
   2. ( as modifier )

      a demolition charge

Derived Forms

• ˌdemoˈlitionist, nounadjective

Other Words From

• demo·lition·ist noun
• nondem·o·lition noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of demolition¹

1540–50; < Latin dēmōlītiōn- (stem of dēmōlītiō ), equivalent to dēmōlīt ( us ) (past participle of dēmōlīrī; demolish ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

Campaigners called for an "immediate stop" to demolition and relocation plans.

From BBC

These advocates called for imposing further restrictions on demolition, which the Planning Department said could significantly reduce new housing construction, including units that are mandated to be affordable to low-income households.

From Los Angeles Times

With plenty of time to work with the squad, he oversaw an encouraging campaign including a 40-6 demolition of Australia in Lyon.

From BBC

The court then issued a set of guidelines, which make it mandatory for authorities to give at least 15 days' advance notice to an occupant before an illegal structure is torn down and to publicly explain the reason for the demolition.

From BBC

All public officials will also be personally held responsible under Indian laws if a demolition is carried out wrongfully, the judgement added.

From BBC

Related Words

• annihilation
• explosion