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Synonyms & Similar Words
Meaning of Despoil
The primary meaning of the word "despoil" is to plunder or rob something, especially a place or a person, of its valuable or desirable contents.
Definitions
- To plunder or rob something, especially a place or a person, of its valuable or desirable contents
- * To damage or destroy something, especially a natural environment or a work of art
- * To deprive someone of something, especially their rights or property
Etymology of Despoil
The word "despoil" comes from the Old French word "despoiller", which is derived from the Latin word "despoliare", meaning "to strip or plunder"
The word has been used in English since the 15th century to describe the act of plundering or robbing something
Example Uses
- The invaders despoiled the city, leaving nothing but ruins and rubble behind
- * The company's actions despoiled the natural beauty of the area, causing irreparable damage to the environment
- * The thief despoiled the museum, stealing priceless artifacts and leaving the community devastated