Devitalize is a verb that means to make something weak or enfeeble. This word is spelled with the prefix "de-" which means to reverse or remove and the root "vitalize" which refers to energy or strength. It is pronounced as dih-vahy-tuh-lahyz with the IPA phonetic transcription of /dɪˈvaɪtəˌlaɪz/. The stress of the word is on the second syllable. The accurate spelling of this word is important in order to effectively communicate its meaning in writing.
Devitalize is a verb that refers to the act of causing someone or something to lose strength, energy, or vitality. It involves reducing or impairing the vigor, liveliness, or effectiveness of someone or something. When something is devitalized, its vitality and life force are diminished or depleted, ultimately leading to a state of weakness or exhaustion.
In regards to individuals, devitalize can describe the process of physically, mentally, or emotionally draining someone. This can occur through excessive work, stress, or prolonged illness, resulting in a general decline in energy levels and overall well-being.
When it comes to objects or substances, devitalizing often entails depriving them of their inherent qualities or properties. For instance, chemicals or treatments can devitalize organic matter by breaking down its essential components, rendering it weak or lifeless.
Additionally, the term can also be used in a figurative sense, describing the undermining or suppression of ideas, movements, or institutions. In this context, devitalization refers to eroding the enthusiasm, motivation, or effectiveness of a person, group, or organization, often resulting in decreased productivity or impact.
Overall, devitalize connotes a reduction in vitality and an impairment of strength or effectiveness, whether it is applied to individuals, objects, substances, or abstract concepts.
To deprive of vitality or of vitalizing properties.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "devitalize" is derived from the combination of two Latin elements: "de" meaning "away from" or "remove" and "vita" meaning "life". Therefore, the etymology of "devitalize" suggests that it means to remove or take away life or vitality from something.