In Talbot County, located on Maryland's Eastern Shore near Easton, the county seat, there is a small, sparsely populated area known mainly for its worn-out, sandy, desert-like soil, rundown farms and fences, impoverished and listless residents, and frequent occurrences of ague and fever. What is the meaning of the word 'dilapidation' as used in this context?
Explanation
Option A refers to hunger or famine, which is unrelated. Option B means a decrease, which does not fit the context. Option C relates to derivation or origin, which is incorrect here. Option D correctly defines 'dilapidation' as neglect or decay, matching the description of rundown farms and fences. Option E is the opposite of the intended meaning.