WordValedilapidated
in a state of disrepair
In more detail
1. (adjective) (of a building or object) very old and in bad condition; falling apart or decaying
Examples
- 1. The old dilapidated house on the corner has been abandoned for years.
How to use dilapidated
Dilapidated describes something—typically a building or physical structure—that has fallen into severe disrepair over time. It carries a note of abandonment or neglect and is often used to evoke a somewhat melancholic or dramatic tone. It is more colorful than simply saying 'broken' or 'old,' making it common in descriptive writing, real estate contexts, and literary contexts.
Common phrases
- dilapidated building
- dilapidated house
- dilapidated structure
- dilapidated condition
- fell into dilapidation
Synonyms
decrepit · crumbling · rickety · ramshackle · deteriorated
Opposites
pristine · immaculate · well-maintained
Word family
dilapidation (noun) · dilapidated (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use dilapidated for objects or things that are merely old or outdated rather than structurally decayed; the word specifically implies physical deterioration and poor condition, not just age.
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