1. the practice of cutting down all trees in a forest area at once, rather than selectively harvesting individual trees
Usage: forestry term; often used in environmental discussions

1. to remove all trees from a forest area in a single operation
Usage: present participle of clearcut

Examples

• Clearcutting is a common but controversial forestry practice.
• Environmental groups oppose clearcutting because it destroys habitats.
• The timber company is clearcutting a large section of the national forest.
• Clearcutting can lead to soil erosion and water pollution.
• Some foresters argue that clearcutting is necessary for forest management.
• The hillside was left barren after clearcutting operations ended.
• Regulations now limit where companies can engage in clearcutting.