Dilapidate \Di*lap"i*date\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Dilapidated;
p. pr. & vb. n. Dilapidating.]
[L. dilapidare to scatter
like stones; di- = dis- + lapidare to throw stones, fr. lapis
a stone. See Lapidary.]
1. To bring into a condition of decay or partial ruin, by
misuse or through neglect; to destroy the fairness and
good condition of; -- said of a building.
If the bishop, parson, or vicar, etc., dilapidates
the buildings, or cuts down the timber of the
patrimony. --Blackstone.
2. To impair by waste and abuse; to squander.
The patrimony of the bishopric of Oxon was much
dilapidated. --Wood.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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