depredate

/ˈdɛprɪˌdeɪt/

Definitions

1. verb

to plunder or pillage, especially on a large scale

“The army depredate the village, leaving it in ruins.”

2. verb

to exploit or take unfair advantage of something, such as a natural resource

“The company depredate the forest by cutting down trees without replanting them.”

3. noun

the act of plundering or pillaging

“The depredate of the village was a tragic event in history.”

4. noun

the act of exploiting or taking unfair advantage of something

“The depredate of the forest was a major environmental concern.”

Synonyms

  • despoil
  • exploit
  • pillage
  • plunder

Antonyms

  • conserve
  • preserve
  • protect