devastation
    n 1: the state of being decayed or destroyed [syn:
         devastation, desolation]
    2: the feeling of being confounded or overwhelmed; "her
       departure left him in utter devastation"
    3: an event that results in total destruction [syn:
       devastation, desolation]
    4: plundering with excessive damage and destruction [syn:
       ravaging, devastation]
    5: the termination of something by causing so much damage to it
       that it cannot be repaired or no longer exists [syn:
       destruction, devastation]

Devastation \Dev`as*ta"tion\, n. [Cf. F. d['e]vastation.]
   1. The act of devastating, or the state of being devastated;
      a laying waste.
      [1913 Webster]

            Even now the devastation is begun,
            And half the business of destruction done.
                                                  --Goldsmith.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. (Law) Waste of the goods of the deceased by an executor or
      administrator. --Blackstone.

   Syn: Desolation; ravage; waste; havoc; destruction; ruin;
        overthrow.
        [1913 Webster]