despoliation

noun
UK: /dɪˌspəʊ.liˈeɪ.ʃən/
US: /dɪˌspoʊ.liˈeɪ.ʃən/

  1. The act of damaging or destroying something, especially a place, making it less attractive or useful.

    1. The despoliation of the forest was a great loss to the community.
    2. The environmental despoliation caused by the factory led to protests and public outcry.

  2. The act of plundering or looting something.

    1. The despoliation of the ancient tombs angered many archaeologists.
    2. The museum suffered severe despoliation during the war, with priceless artifacts stolen.

Synonyms

destruction plunder

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "despoliation" in English means: The act of damaging or destroying something, especially a place, making it less attractive or useful., The act of plundering or looting something..

The phonetic transcription of "despoliation" is /dɪˌspəʊ.liˈeɪ.ʃən/ in British English and /dɪˌspoʊ.liˈeɪ.ʃən/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "despoliation": destruction, plunder.

Example usage of "despoliation": "The despoliation of the forest was a great loss to the community.". More examples on the page.