devastation

Dev`as*ta"tion, n. Etym: [Cf. F. dévastation.] 1. The act of devastating, or the state of being devastated; a laying waste. Even now the devastation is begun, And half the business of destruction done. Goldsmith. 2. (Law) Defn: Waste of the goods of the deceased by an executor or administrator. Blackstone. Syn. -- Desolation; ravage; waste; havoc; destruction; ruin; overthrow.

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