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Spoils Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spoils

[spɔɪlz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

war

Goods, money, or other valuables seized by a victor in war; booty.

Synonyms

booty, loot, plunder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spoils

Usually used to refer to rewards, benefits, or goods taken from a defeated enemy in a broader sense, often in the context of war or competition.

  • The spoils of war were divided among the soldiers
  • The spoils from the competition included a trophy and cash prize
booty

Frequently used to describe treasure or valuables taken by pirates or robbers. It has a slightly adventurous or romanticized connotation.

  • The pirates buried their booty on a remote island
  • The robbers made off with a significant amount of booty
plunder

Generally refers to the act of violently taking goods, often associated with extensive destruction and pillaging. It has a strong negative connotation.

  • The Vikings plundered the coastal village
  • The army's plunder left the city in ruins
loot

Commonly used to refer to stolen goods or valuables taken by force, especially during conflicts or riots. It often carries a negative connotation.

  • The invaders looted the city, taking everything of value
  • The protesters were seen carrying away loot from the vandalized stores

Examples of usage

  • The spoils of war were divided among the soldiers.
  • The army captured the city and took all the spoils.
Context #2 | Verb

competition

To strip (a defeated army) of equipment, arms, and other items as a punishment or reward.

Synonyms

deprive, rob, strip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
deprive

Used when someone is prevented from having something they need or want, often something essential. This term often carries a negative connotation.

  • The prisoners were deprived of basic human rights.
  • She was deprived of sleep because of the noisy neighbors.
rob

Used when someone takes something valuable from someone else illegally, usually by force or threat. This term has a strong negative connotation.

  • He was robbed at gunpoint.
  • The thieves robbed the bank in broad daylight.
strip

Used when removing the covering or contents from something, or taking something away completely, often forcibly. It can also refer to removing clothing. This term can carry a negative connotation depending on context.

  • The walls were stripped of their old paint.
  • The company stripped him of his title.

Examples of usage

  • The winning team will spoil the losers of their championship title.
  • The company aims to spoil its competitors of their market share.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Science

  • Foods can spoil due to bacteria, yeast, or mold, which thrive in warm, moist environments.
  • Some fruits, like bananas, release ethylene gas, speeding up spoilage for nearby produce.
  • Using proper storage techniques can extend the shelf life of perishable goods.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, there are sayings about not wasting food, highlighting the negative view of spoilage.
  • The phrase 'to the victor go the spoils' reflects how conquering groups claim resources from their defeated enemies.
  • Rituals surrounding food preservation can be found in cultures worldwide, emphasizing the importance of utilizing all resources.

Environmental Impact

  • Food spoilage contributes to a significant amount of global waste, impacting the environment.
  • Reducing food spoilage can lead to conservation of resources such as water and land used for farming.
  • Composting spoiled food can help return nutrients to the soil instead of ending up in landfills.

Psychological Perspective

  • Fear of spoilage influences consumer purchasing behavior, leading them to buy products with longer shelf lives.
  • Some people experience guilt or anxiety over wasted food, often referred to as 'food waste guilt.'
  • The concept of 'nothing wasted' has become popular, encouraging people to find creative ways to use leftovers.

Origin of 'spoils'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'espoille,' which means 'to divide or take.'
  • It has roots in Latin 'spoliare,' meaning 'to strip' or 'to take away.'
  • Originally, it referred to the goods taken from enemies after a battle.

The word 'spoils' originated from the Latin word 'spolium', which referred to the skin, hide, or fleece stripped from an animal. Over time, it evolved to describe the goods or valuables taken as a result of victory in war. The concept of spoils has been a common practice throughout history, where the victors would claim the spoils of war as a reward for their efforts.

See also: spoil, spoilage, spoiled, spoiledness, spoiling, spoilsport, unspoiled.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,547, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.