depredate

[ dep-ri-deyt ]

verb (used with object)

, dep·re·dat·ed, dep·re·dat·ing.

1. to plunder or lay waste to; prey upon; pillage; ravage.

verb (used without object)

, dep·re·dat·ed, dep·re·dat·ing.

1. to plunder; pillage.

depredate

/ dɪˈprɛdɪtərɪ; ˈdɛprɪˌdeɪtərɪ; -trɪ; ˈdɛprɪˌdeɪt /

verb

1. rare.
   tr to plunder or destroy; pillage

Derived Forms

• ˈdepreˌdator, noun
• depredatory, adjective

Other Words From

• depre·dator noun
• dep·re·da·to·ry [dep, -ri-dey-t, uh, -ree, dih-, pred, -, uh, -tawr-ee, -tohr-ee], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of depredate¹

1620–30; < Late Latin dēpraedātus plundered (past participle of depraedārī ), equivalent to Latin dē- de- + praed ( ārī ) to plunder ( prey ) + -ātus -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of depredate¹

C17: from Late Latin dēpraedārī to ravage, from Latin de- + praeda booty; see prey

Example Sentences

But the most valuable of the members of the band of friends of the Jameses are those who never go abroad to depredate.

From Project Gutenberg

I have been told that superstitious thieves hang veils or kerchiefs before the picture in rooms where they depredate.

From Project Gutenberg

Continuing, he charged the general with inciting his employés to depredate on the fences and fields.

From Project Gutenberg

Chickens depredate warily about the doorsteps, and intent pigs emerge for plunder from the alleys.

From Project Gutenberg

Col. Bush asked if this man Blackman, who took out a commission in order to depredate and plunder, is still living?

From Project Gutenberg