The process of removing leaves from trees or plants, often as a result of natural causes, chemicals, or disease. The defoliation of the forest was evident after the severe storm passed through the area.
The loss of leaves from a plant or tree, which can occur naturally or be induced artificially. Farmers were concerned about the defoliation of their crops due to the unexpected frost.
The deliberate removal of foliage from an area, especially through the use of chemical agents, as a military tactic to deny cover or food. International criticism followed the large-scale defoliation carried out during the conflict.