'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]