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Depredation: meaning, definitions and examples

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depredation

 

[ ˌdɛprɪˈdeɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

environmental impact

Depredation refers to the act of attacking or plundering, often associated with the destruction of property or resources. This term is frequently used in ecological contexts to describe the negative effects that human activities have on ecosystems, such as habitat destruction or over-exploitation of natural resources. In historical contexts, depredation can also refer to acts of violence or pillage committed by individuals or groups. The term emphasizes the aggressive and damaging aspects of these actions.

Synonyms

destruction, devastation, pillaging, plundering, ravaging

Examples of usage

  • The depredation of the forest led to habitat loss for many species.
  • Historical records document the depredation of coastal villages by pirates.
  • The company's depredation of the environment raised concerns among activists.

Translations

Translations of the word "depredation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 depredação

🇮🇳 नाश

🇩🇪 Raub

🇮🇩 perusakan

🇺🇦 знищення

🇵🇱 zniszczenie

🇯🇵 略奪

🇫🇷 déprédation

🇪🇸 depredación

🇹🇷 yağma

🇰🇷 약탈

🇸🇦 نهب

🇨🇿 západ

🇸🇰 zničenie

🇨🇳 掠夺

🇸🇮 opustošenje

🇮🇸 rænd

🇰🇿 жойылу

🇬🇪 მოწყვეტა

🇦🇿 tələfat

🇲🇽 depredación

Word origin

The word 'depredation' originates from the Latin term 'depraedatio', which means 'to prey upon' or 'to plunder'. This Latin term is derived from 'de' meaning 'down from' and 'praedari', meaning 'to plunder'. Over time, the term evolved through Middle French 'déprédation' before entering the English language in the late 14th century. Initially, the usage was closely related to acts of robbery or violent destruction, particularly in the context of warfare or piracy. The concept later expanded to include broader environmental and economic destruction, reflecting the evolving concerns of society regarding sustainability and conservation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,045, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.