deserted

word · lemma: desert

/dɪˈzɝtɪd/
di-ZUR-tid
/dɪzˈɜːtɪd/
di-ZUR-tid

Definition

A place is described as 'deserted' when no one is there, especially if it was once used or busy. It can also mean someone has been abandoned.

Usage & Nuances

'Deserted' is usually used for places (streets, towns, buildings) that are empty. It is more dramatic than 'empty', suggesting a place should have people but doesn't. Also used in the passive form ('was deserted') when talking about people or animals being abandoned.

Example Sentences

The beach was deserted after the storm.

basic

Downtown looked completely deserted during the holiday.

natural

This place is so deserted, it's almost spooky.

natural

After everyone left, he felt completely deserted.

natural

The street was deserted at midnight.

basic

The old house looked deserted.

basic