Pronunciation: [dɪlˈapɪdˌe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
Dilapidate is spelled with a "dil-" prefix and "-apidate" suffix. The "dil-" comes from the Latin word "dilapidare", meaning "to squander or waste away", while "-apidate" derives from the Latin "-apidus", meaning "decayed or in ruins". Thus, the word refers to the process of falling into a state of disrepair or ruin. The pronunciation of dilapidate is /dɪˈlæpɪdeɪt/ in IPA phonetic transcription.
Dilapidate is a verb that refers to the act of falling into a state of disrepair, decay, or ruin, often due to neglect or age. When something is dilapidated, it can be described as being in a state of extreme deterioration, where its physical condition has significantly worsened. This term is commonly used to describe buildings, structures, or other man-made objects that have visible signs of damage, such as crumbling walls, collapsing roofs, or broken windows.
The process of dilapidation is often gradual, occurring over time as a result of poor maintenance or lack of care. It can also be accelerated by natural disasters, weather conditions, or other external factors. The word dilapidate can also be used metaphorically, suggesting a decline or deterioration in other areas, such as relationships, organizations, or systems.
The term dilapidate is derived from the Latin word "dilapidare," which means to squander or waste. It conveys the idea of something falling apart due to neglect or mismanagement. This verb is often used in a passive form to describe the state of an object or structure, emphasizing its degraded or ruined condition. Overall, dilapidate is a powerful word that captures the image of something in disrepair, representing the loss of its previous functional and aesthetic value.
To fall into decay; to go to ruin; to waste or destroy, applied to buildings.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word dilapidate originates from the Latin verb dilapidare, which is a combination of two words: dis, meaning apart, and lapidare, meaning to stone or to pelt with stones. In Latin, dilapidare was used metaphorically to describe the act of reducing something to ruins or a state of disrepair, just as a building being stoned could crumble and fall apart. The term was later adopted into Middle English as dilapidaten and eventually shortened to dilapidate.
