Deprive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿšซ
Add to dictionary

deprive

[dษชหˆpraษชv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

of something

To deny a person or place the possession or use of something.

Synonyms

dispossess, rob, strip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
deprive

Used when someone is denied access to something they need or want, often essential items or rights.

  • The storm deprived the village of electricity for a week
  • Growing up, he was deprived of a formal education
dispossess

Commonly used in legal or formal contexts to indicate the removal of ownership or property, especially land or home.

  • They were dispossessed of their land during the conflict
  • The new law threatens to dispossess thousands of homeowners
strip

Applied when something is removed completely, often leaving someone or something in a vulnerable state. Can be physical or metaphorical and sometimes has a negative connotation.

  • The thief stripped the car of all valuable parts
  • She was stripped of her title after the scandal
rob

Typically used to describe the act of taking property or money from someone by force. This word often has a criminal connotation.

  • The bank was robbed in broad daylight
  • He was robbed at gunpoint while walking home

Examples of usage

  • The government may deprive someone of their citizenship.
  • The lack of funds deprived them of basic necessities.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'deprive'

The word 'deprive' originated from the Latin word 'deprฤซvฤre', which means 'to bereave'. It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century. The concept of deprivation has been a common theme in various societies throughout history, reflecting struggles for power, resources, and rights. The act of depriving someone or something of a particular privilege or possession has been a recurring theme in literature, politics, and everyday life.


See also: deprave, deprivation, deprived.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,670 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.