C1nounformalenvironment
US/dɪˈpliː.ʃən/
UK/dɪˈpliː.ʃən/
the reduction of something, such as a natural resource, until little or none is left
In context
Over-pumping has led to serious depletion of groundwater in the Mekong Delta.
Ozone depletion was one of the first global environmental problems.
Overfishing has caused the rapid depletion of fish stocks in the area.
Words that go with depletion
noun + noun
- ozone depletionOzone depletion lets more harmful rays reach the ground.
- resource depletionResource depletion is a major concern for future generations.
- groundwater depletionGroundwater depletion is making the city sink.
noun + preposition
- depletion ofThe depletion of forests affects rainfall patterns.
adjective + noun
- rapid depletionScientists warned about the rapid depletion of the aquifer.