demolition
UK[ˌdɛməˈlɪʃ(ə)n]US[ˌdɛməˈlɪʃ(ə)n]
n
The act of destroying something, especially a large building, completely.
n
The process of proving that an argument or theory is completely wrong.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
mol
ition
de
down, away
mol
mass, structure
ition
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'demolition' originates from the Latin verb 'demoliri', meaning "to tear down, to destroy." This verb itself is a compound of the prefix 'de-' (indicating reversal or removal) and 'moliri' (to build, to construct). The core root 'moles' signified a massive structure or burden. Thus, the literal sense is "to un-build" or "to take down a mass." The term entered English via Middle French 'demolition' in the 16th century, retaining its primary meaning of pulling down buildings. Over time, its application broadened metaphorically to describe the thorough dismantling of arguments, plans, or institutions, preserving the core concept of complete, forceful reversal of construction.
Analysis
Structure: de (down, away) + mol (mass, structure) + ition (noun suffix)
de: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "down, away, off, completely."
mol: Latin origin, from the root 'moliri' (to build, to construct a mass), related to 'moles' (a mass, a large structure).
ition: Latin suffix '-itionem' (via Old French '-icion'), forming nouns of action or state.
Examples
The old factory is scheduled for demolition next week.
The lawyer's cross-examination resulted in the complete demolition of the witness's testimony.
Demolition work requires careful planning to ensure public safety.