1. severe and widespread destruction or damage
2. severe emotional shock or distress

Examples

• The hurricane left a trail of devastation along the coast.
• The earthquake caused widespread devastation in the city center.
• After the fire, the family surveyed the devastation of their home.
• The news of her father’s death brought complete devastation.
• The war brought devastation to countless families.
• Recovery from the devastation will take many years.
• She felt devastation when she learned she didn’t get the job.