Spell Bee Word: dilapidated

Basic Details

Word: Dilapidated

Part of Speech: Adjective

Meaning: In very bad condition; falling apart or needing repair.

Synonyms: Ruined, decayed, worn-out

Antonyms: Well-maintained, new, sturdy

Idioms and Phrases

1. Bring down the house: To cause a place to be in a worse state than before. Example: "The storm really brought down the house, leaving everything in a dilapidated condition."
2. Fell by the wayside: To be neglected or ignored, often leading to deterioration. Example: "Over the years, the once beautiful garden fell by the wayside and became dilapidated."

Usage Examples

Example 1: The dilapidated old house stood at the end of the street, covered in vines and broken windows.

Example 2: After years of neglect, the playground was dilapidated and unsafe for the children.

Example 3: They decided to renovate the dilapidated theatre to bring back its former glory.

Fun Fact

The word "dilapidated" comes from the Latin word "dilapidare," which means "to waste or squander." It originally referred to the act of throwing stones from a building, contributing to its poor condition.

Famous Quote

"A house without books is like a room without windows." Horace Mann—this quote highlights how a dilapidated environment can affect our outlook and knowledge.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What does "dilapidated" mean?

a) In perfect condition
b) In very bad condition
c) Brightly coloured
d) New and shiny

Answer: b) In very bad condition

2. Which of these is a synonym of "dilapidated"?

a) Sturdy
b) Ruined
c) Sparkling
d) Elegant

Answer: b) Ruined

3. Which sentence uses "dilapidated" correctly?

a) The dilapidated car was shiny and new.
b) The museum was dilapidated and needed repairs.
c) He felt dilapidated after eating dinner.
d) The dilapidated flower was in full bloom.

Answer: b) The museum was dilapidated and needed repairs.

4. Which idiom can mean something has become dilapidated?

a) Bring down the house
b) On thin ice
c) A penny for your thoughts
d) Break the ice

Answer: a) Bring down the house

5. What is the opposite of "dilapidated"?

a) Ruined
b) Worn-out
c) Well-maintained
d) Neglected

Answer: c) Well-maintained