"one skilled in working with precious stones," 1382, from O.Fr. lapidaire, from L. lapidarius "stonecutter," originally an adj. "of or working with stone," from lapis (gen. lapidis) "stone."
Di*lap"i*date\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Dilapidated; p. pr. & vb. n. Dilapidating.] [L. dilapidare to scatter like stones; di- = dis- + lapidare to throw stones, fr. lapis a stone. See Lapidary.]1. To bring into a condition of decay or partial ruin, by misuse or through neglect; to destroy the fairness and good condition of; -- said of a building. If the bishop, parson, or vicar, etc., dilapidates the buildings, or cuts down the timber of the patrimony. --Blackstone. 2. To impair by waste and abuse; to squander. The patrimony of the bishopric of Oxon was much dilapidated. --Wood.
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Audio Help [lap-i-der-ee] Pronunciation Key noun, plural -dar·ies, adjective 
