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Plunder Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ฐ
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plunder

[หˆplสŒndษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

piracy

To steal goods from (a place or person), typically using force and in a time of war or civil disorder.

Synonyms

loot, pillage, ravage, rob.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plunder

Often used in historical or literary contexts to describe taking valuable items by force, especially during war or conflict.

  • The invading army plundered the wealthy merchant's goods.
  • Pirates would often plunder ships on the high seas.
loot

Typically used to describe stealing goods during chaotic situations like riots, natural disasters, or war. Can have a negative connotation.

  • During the blackout, several stores were looted.
  • The thieves looted the abandoned house.
rob

Commonly used to describe stealing from a person or place, and can be used in everyday conversations. It is the most general term and can be used in various contexts.

  • The convenience store was robbed last night.
  • He was robbed at gunpoint while walking home.
pillage

Usually refers to the act of violently stealing and destroying property, especially in a wartime context. It often carries a very negative connotation.

  • The soldiers pillaged the village, leaving nothing behind.
  • Ancient warriors would often pillage the lands they conquered.
ravage

This word focuses more on destruction than on stealing, often used to describe the devastating impact on a place or things by war, natural disasters, or disease.

  • The hurricane ravaged the coastal towns.
  • The invading forces ravaged the city, leaving it in ruins.

Examples of usage

  • The village was plundered by enemy troops during the war.
  • The pirates plundered the merchant ships for their valuable cargo.
Context #2 | Noun

piracy

The action of plundering.

Synonyms

booty, loot, spoils.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plunder

Often used to describe the act of stealing goods, typically during a war or conflict. It carries a negative connotation.

  • The invaders set out to plunder the village
  • The pirates were known for their plundering of merchant ships
loot

Commonly used to describe goods stolen during riots, wars, or other chaotic events. It often implies disorder and lawlessness.

  • During the riot, stores were looted and destroyed
  • The robbers made off with a significant amount of loot
booty

Refers to valuable goods or treasure that has been taken, especially in the context of piracy or crime. It can sometimes have a less negative and more adventurous or daring connotation.

  • The pirates rejoiced at the sight of the booty they had captured
  • The treasure hunters were eager to find the hidden booty
spoils

Refers to goods or benefits taken from a defeated enemy in various contexts, including war or competition. It can also mean rewards or gains from any endeavor, sometimes lacking a negative connotation.

  • The victorious soldiers divided the spoils of war
  • The winner took the spoils of the competition

Examples of usage

  • The plunder of the village was a devastating blow to the community.
  • The pirates divided the plunder amongst themselves.

Translations

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

Origin of 'plunder'

The word 'plunder' originated from the Middle Dutch word 'plonderen', which meant to rob. It has been used since the 17th century to describe the act of stealing goods by force, especially in the context of war or piracy. The concept of plunder has been a common practice throughout history, often associated with acts of aggression and conquest.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,909, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.