1. the act of stripping or robbing someone of possessions, rights, or dignity; plunder or spoliation
Usage: formal; often used in legal or historical contexts

Examples

• The despoilment of the village by invading forces left the residents impoverished.
• Historical records document the despoilment of cultural artifacts from conquered territories.
• The court ruled that the despoilment of the estate violated the heir's legal rights.
• Environmental despoilment of the forest has destroyed habitats for countless species.
• The despoilment of indigenous lands continued throughout the colonial period.
• She spoke passionately against the despoilment of human dignity in war.
• The museum worked to recover artifacts lost through despoilment during the conflict.