dilapidated
dih-LAP-uh-day-tid
/dɪˈlæp.ɪ.deɪ.tɪd/
In a state of disrepair or ruin as a result of age or neglect.
Describes physical buildings, vehicles, or structures that are falling apart.
The story behind the word. Literally meaning 'stones falling apart', from Latin 'lapis' (stone). Originally used to describe stone buildings where loose stones were falling out of masonry walls due to neglect over centuries.
Word relationships
- run-down: More informal and everyday in tone compared to dilapidated.
- ramshackle: Implies a loosely constructed or poorly put-together structure about to collapse.
- pristine: In its original condition; completely unspoiled or spotless.
- immaculate: Perfectly clean, neat, or tidy.
Commonly confused with
- derelict: Derelict emphasizes abandonment by the owner, whereas dilapidated emphasizes physical decay.
Word family
- dilapidation (noun): The state of falling into decay or disrepair.
Collocations
- dilapidated building
- dilapidated state
- dilapidated housing
- dilapidated infrastructure
Example sentences
- "The city plan called for replacing dilapidated factories with modern residential housing." Urban Decay
- "He stood before a dilapidated wooden shed whose roof had partially collapsed under winter snow." Literature
Memory hook
di-LAPIS-dated: stone (lapis) crumbling and falling down. Crumbling stone by crumbling stone.
When not to use
Do not use to describe human feelings, emotional states, or abstract non-physical concepts.
Fun facts
- In legal terms, 'dilapidations' refer to damages or decay to a leased property for which a tenant is held financially responsible.
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