despoil

/ˈdɛspɔɪl/; /dɪˈspoʊɪl/

Definitions

1. verb

to plunder or strip of possessions, property, or assets

“The warlords despoiled the village, leaving it in ruins.”

2. verb

to spoil or destroy something, especially by removing or damaging its valuable or attractive parts

“The careless tourists despoiled the beautiful coral reef.”

3. noun

an act of plundering or spoiling

“The despoilment of the city’s art museum was a tragic event.”

Synonyms

  • loot
  • pillage
  • plunder
  • spoil

Antonyms

  • enrich
  • improve
  • restore