What is another word for de-populate?
Pronunciation: [dəpˈɒpjʊlˌe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
De-populate refers to the act of reducing the number of people or animals in a particular area or region. There are several synonyms for this word which are often used depending on the context in which they are being used. These synonyms include depopulate, decimate, empty, evacuate, and abandon. Depopulate is often used in reference to a gradual decrease in population over time. Decimate, on the other hand, refers to a sudden and drastic reduction in population, usually through mass death or destruction. Empty is used to describe a place that has been emptied of people or animals. Evacuate is often used in emergency situations to describe the removal of people from a dangerous area. Finally, abandon refers to the act of leaving a place permanently or indefinitely.
