1. removing leaves from plants or trees

1. causing the removal of leaves from plants

Examples

• The caterpillars were defoliating the oak trees in the park.
• Farmers worried about insects defoliating their crops.
• The defoliating agent destroyed the forest canopy.
• Strong winds were defoliating the trees before autumn.
• Scientists studied the defoliating effects of the chemical.
• The drought was slowly defoliating the entire region.
• Defoliating sprays can harm beneficial insects too.