English Dictionary
Definition of “deplete”
deplete (dɪˈpliːt
)
Definitions
verb (tr)
- to use up (supplies, money, energy, etc); reduce or exhaust
- to empty entirely or partially
- medicine to empty or reduce the fluid contents of (an organ or vessel)
Alternative Forms
deˈpletable adjective deˈpletion noun deˈpletive deˈpletory adjective Word Origin
C19: from Latin dēplēre to empty out, from de- + plēre to fill
Synonyms
View thesaurus entry
=
use up,
reduce,
drain,
exhaust,
consume,
empty,
decrease,
evacuate,
lessen,
impoverish,
expend,
bankrupt,
Usage examples
If I don't find ways to keep him at bay, he'll deplete me, rob me of my vibrancy.
Andrews, Virginia, Web of Dreams (1990)1996, pp 67-72 Well-designed and executed meetings of your marketing personnel can quickly deplete your inventories.
Business Today (1996)You've had four years and all that you have accomplished is to deplete our financial reserves and increase spending.
Ottawa Sun (2003)Water tanks on roofs were destroyed by machine-gunners to deplete reserves.
Times, Sunday Times (2002)They narrow and deplete the quality of life and ultimately perpetuate the effects of the traumatic event.
Herman, Judith Lewis, Trauma and Recovery (1992)
