\Dec`i*ma"tion\, n. [L. decimatio: cf. F.
d['e]cimation.]
1. A tithing. [Obs.] --State Trials (1630).

2. A selection of every tenth person by lot, as for
   punishment. --Shak.

3. The destruction of any large proportion, as of people by
   pestilence or war. --Milman.