'defoliation' definitions:
Definition of 'defoliation'
From: WordNet
noun
The loss of foliage
noun
Causing the leaves of trees and other plants to fall off (as by the use of chemicals)
Definition of 'defoliation'
From: GCIDE
- defoliation \de*fo`li*a"tion\, n. [LL. defoliare, defoliatum, to shed leaves; L. de- + folium leaf: cf. F. d['e]foliation.] The separation of ripened leaves from a branch or stem; the falling or shedding of the leaves. [1913 Webster]
- 2. the act or process of causing plants to lose their leaves, especially by application of a chemical agent.
- Note: The deliberate defoliation of plants has been used in war (as in Vietnam) to deprive an enemy of cover and allow attack from the air; also, to destroy narcotic-producing plants as a tactic against illegal drug production. The chemical defoliating agents are often sprayed over large areas from airplanes. [PJC]