deindustrialization

noun

Pronunciation: ˌdiːɪndʌstriəlaɪˈzeɪʃən

Definition

A process of social and economic change caused by the removal or reduction of industrial capacity or activity in a country or region.

Examples

• Many cities in the Rust Belt have struggled to reinvent themselves following decades of deindustrialization.

• The shift toward a service-based economy was accelerated by rapid deindustrialization in the late 20th century.

• Policy makers are debating how to support communities that have been hit hardest by deindustrialization.

Synonyms of deindustrialization

Words with a similar meaning to deindustrialization:

• decline
• downsizing
• retrenchment
• hollowing out

Antonyms of deindustrialization

Words with the opposite meaning to deindustrialization:

• industrialization

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