depredation

American  

[dep-ri-dey-shuhn] / ˌdɛp rɪˈdeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act of preying upon or plundering; robbery; ravage.

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depredation British  

/ ˌdɛprɪˈdeɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of plundering; robbery; pillage

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Other Word Forms

• depredationist noun

Etymology

Origin of depredation

1475–85; < Late Latin dēpraedātiōn- (stem of dēpraedātiō ) a plundering, equivalent to dēpraedāt ( us ) ( depredate ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

In his 28-page order, Olguin dismissed the indictment with prejudice, meaning prosecutors cannot refile the same charges of assault on a federal officer using a deadly or dangerous weapon and depredation of government property.

From Los Angeles Times

In 2012, a commission of Austrian and Mexican experts completed an extensive restoration of the heavily damaged penacho, ravaged by time, insect depredation and other factors.

From Los Angeles Times

Between January and March of this year, 26 instances of livestock depredation were being investigated with wolves confirmed as the culprit in 16 of them, according to state data.

From Los Angeles Times

Eventually, officials with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife were called and told Miller she could sign a “depredation permit,” after which authorities could kill bears trying to get into her house.

From Los Angeles Times

When they found a dead or dying cow with telltale signs of wolf “depredation,” ranchers could alert the state and a representative would come out to investigate.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• wasting