Pillage: meaning, definitions and examples

Used mainly in historical or medieval contexts to describe the act of violently stealing goods, usually during wartime or conflict.

• The invaders pillaged the village, taking everything of value and burning what remained

Similar to 'pillage', often used in historical or adventurous contexts to describe taking goods by force during warfare or pirate attacks.

• The pirates plundered the coastal town, leaving nothing behind

Common in both historical and modern contexts, typically used to describe stealing or taking goods, often after a natural disaster, war, or during riots.

• The looters took advantage of the chaos after the hurricane to steal from abandoned shops

Used to describe destruction or damaging something severely, not necessarily stealing. Often used in relation to damage caused by natural forces or warfare.

• The hurricane ravaged the coastal city, leaving thousands homeless

Typically used in a historical context to describe the act of attacking and looting a city or settlement.

• The army sacked the ancient city, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake

Describes the act of violently taking goods, especially during war or conflict. It's often associated with historical battles.

• The invading soldiers began to pillage the village, leaving nothing behind.
• In the chaos of the battle, there was widespread pillaging of homes and shops.

Typically used to refer to stealing, especially in large quantities, during war, conflict, or rebellion. It can have a slightly broader application than pillage.

• The pirates were known for their plundering of coastal towns.
• The army's plundering lasted for days, leaving the city in ruins.

Focuses more on the destruction itself rather than just stealing. Used to describe widespread damage and ruin, typically during conflicts or natural disasters.

• The hurricane ravaged the entire coastline, leaving devastation in its wake.
• The war ravaged the land, with both cities and countryside left in ruin.

Refers specifically to the act of looting and destroying a city or town, usually during war. It's commonly used in historical or military contexts.

• The enemy forces spent the night sacking the city, taking treasures and setting buildings on fire.
• The sacking of Rome in 410 AD was a significant event in the history of the city.