(n)loss of salt from the body without replacement (loss by vomiting or profuse perspiration or urination or diarrhea) thus upsetting the electrolyte balance
v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Depleted; p. pr. & vb. n. Depleting. ] [ From L. deplere to empty out; de- + plere to fill. Forined like replete, complete. See Fill, Full, a. ] 1. (Med.) To empty or unload, as the vessels of human system, by bloodletting or by medicine. Copland. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. To reduce by destroying or consuming the vital powers of; to exhaust, as a country of its strength or resources, a treasury of money, etc. Saturday Review. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. [ Cf. F. déplétion. ] 1. The act of depleting or emptying. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Med.) the act or process of diminishing the quantity of fluid in the vessels by bloodletting or otherwise; also excessive evacuation, as in severe diarrhea. [ 1913 Webster ]