devitalized

Devitalized is an adjective meaning deprived of life or vitality, or subjected to a process that removes vitality. The term is formed from de- (removal) and vital (life). It is used in medical, botanical, and general contexts to describe something that is nonviable or lacking energy.

In medicine and pathology, devitalized tissue refers to tissue that is nonviable or necrotic, lacking metabolic activity and blood supply. Devitalization can occur due to injury, ischemia, infection, or chemical exposure, and such tissue is typically removed during surgery or debridement.

In dentistry, a devitalized tooth denotes one whose pulp is dead or nonvital; such teeth may require procedures like pulpectomy or extraction, depending on the circumstance, and they are often among the considerations in treatment planning.

In botany and horticulture, devitalized seeds or plant tissues are those that have lost germination ability or metabolic function. Seed viability tests assess the remaining life with germination trials, and devitalization can occur through heat, irradiation, or aging.

In general usage, devitalized is used metaphorically to describe systems, communities, or populations that have lost energy, vigor, or cultural vitality. See also vitality, viability, necrosis, and debridement as related concepts.