dilapidated
dih-LAP-uh-day-tid
/dɪˈlæp.ɪ.deɪ.tɪd/
In a state of disrepair or ruin as a result of age or neglect.
Refers specifically to structures, buildings, or physical items falling apart due to decay and long-term lack of maintenance.
The story behind the word. In ancient Rome, 'dilapidare' literally meant to hurl stones apart or scatter masonry loose. Over centuries, English adopted the term to describe buildings whose stones had literally fallen apart through centuries of neglect.
Word relationships
- decrepit: Decrepit often implies age-related weakness in living things or objects, whereas dilapidated focuses specifically on physical disrepair of structures.
- ramshackle: Ramshackle suggests a poorly constructed build from the start, whereas dilapidated implies deterioration over time.
- pristine: In original, unspoiled, or perfect condition.
- well-maintained: Kept in excellent condition through continuous care.
Commonly confused with
- derelict: Derelict implies complete abandonment by the owner, while dilapidated merely describes physical condition regardless of ownership.
Word family
- dilapidation (noun): The state of being ruined or decayed.
- dilapidate (verb): To bring or fall into decay or partial ruin.
Collocations
- dilapidated building
- dilapidated infrastructure
- dilapidated structure
- dilapidated state
Idioms & expressions
- fall into disrepair
Example sentences
- "The old textile mill stood dilapidated on the riverbank, its shattered windows staring blankly over the overgrown yard." Urban decay description
- "They moved into a dilapidated wooden house near the tracks where the roof leaked with every rainstorm." Literary depiction of neglected housing
Memory hook
Imagine a house where the LAP (lapis/stone) is sliding down because the walls are broken. Stones falling apart layer by layer.
When not to use
Do not use to describe a person's physical health or temporary tiredness; use 'frail' or 'exhausted' instead.
Fun facts
- In English legal history, 'dilapidations' refers to the legal claim a landlord makes against a tenant for failing to maintain a property.
Related words
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