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depredation

noun

/ˌdɛprɪˈdeɪʃn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of depredation

The act of plundering, pillaging, or causing damage through predatory actions.
"The company was accused of depredation of the environment in the pursuit of profit."

Detailed meaning of depredation

It denotes the destructive behavior of animals or humans that involves the indiscriminate looting or destruction of resources, often resulting in harm to the environment, property, or livelihoods of others. This term is commonly used to describe actions that involve theft, vandalism, or other forms of malicious activity aimed at exploiting and depleting valuable assets, whether they are natural resources, cultural artifacts, or economic possessions.

Example sentences containing depredation

1. The village was left in ruins after the depredation carried out by marauding bandits.
2. Environmentalists were concerned about the depredation of the local ecosystem due to deforestation.
3. The ancient temple suffered depredation as treasure hunters ransacked its artifacts.
4. The depredation of the coral reefs by irresponsible fishing practices devastated marine life.
5. Farmers faced significant losses due to the depredation of their crops by wild animals.
6. The history museum displayed artifacts that had survived years of depredation and decay.

History and etymology of depredation

The noun 'depredation' has its etymology rooted in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'depraedatio,' which combines 'de,' meaning 'down from' or 'completely,' and 'praedari,' meaning 'to plunder' or 'to prey upon.' In Latin, 'depraedatio' referred to the act of plundering or pillaging. 'Depredation' entered the English language in the 17th century and is used to describe the act of plundering, pillaging, or causing damage through predatory actions. Its etymology underscores the idea of taking away or despoiling, as implied by its Latin origins in 'depraedatio,' emphasizing the destructive and predatory nature of such actions or behaviors.

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Further usage examples of depredation

1. The government implemented stricter laws to prevent depredation of archaeological sites.
2. Urban areas often experience depredation in the form of graffiti and vandalism.
3. The depredation of natural habitats led to the endangerment of several animal species.
4. Despite efforts to curb illegal hunting, depredation of wildlife continued unabated.
5. The castle's walls bore scars from centuries of depredation during wartime.
6. Conservationists worked tirelessly to reverse the depredation caused by pollution in the river.
7. Local communities suffered economic losses due to the depredation of their fishing grounds.
8. The depredation caused by invasive species disrupted the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
9. Authorities were determined to put an end to the depredation of historical landmarks by vandals.
10. The coastal town's beachfront experienced depredation from storms and erosion.
11. The depredation of resources in the region led to conflicts among different communities.
12. Researchers studied the depredation patterns of predators in the wilderness.
13. Efforts to rehabilitate the forest focused on reversing the depredation caused by wildfires.
14. The company's security measures aimed to prevent depredation of confidential data by hackers.