
Devastate
Severity of Impact
Used to emphasize the serious damage or destruction caused to a place, object, or concept.
The forest fire devastated the wildlife habitat for miles.
Not Physical Harm
Often describes destruction that isn't physical, such as economic or social impacts.
New laws devastated the small business community.
Natural Disasters
Commonly used in the context of natural disasters causing widespread damage.
A massive earthquake devastated the region last night.