deprive

[ dih-prahyv ]

verb (used with object)

, de·prived, de·priv·ing.

1. to remove or withhold something from the enjoyment or possession of (a person or persons):

   to deprive a man of life; to deprive a baby of candy.

2. to remove from ecclesiastical office.

deprive

/ dɪˈpraɪv /

verb

1. foll by of to prevent from possessing or enjoying; dispossess (of)
2. archaic.
   to remove from rank or office; depose; demote

Derived Forms

• deˈpriver, noun
• deˈprival, noun
• deˈprivable, adjective

Other Words From

• de·priva·ble adjective
• de·prival noun
• de·priv·a·tive [dih-, priv, -, uh, -tiv], adjective
• de·priver noun
• nonde·priva·ble adjective
• prede·prive verb (used with object) predeprived predepriving
• self-de·priving adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of deprive¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English depriven, from Anglo-French, Old French depriver, from Medieval Latin dēprīvāre, equivalent to Latin dē- de- + prīvāre “to deprive” ( prīv(us) private + -āre infinitive suffix)

Word History and Origins

Origin of deprive¹

C14: from Old French depriver, from Medieval Latin dēprīvāre, from Latin de- + prīvāre to deprive of, rob; see private

Synonym Study

See strip ¹.

Example Sentences

A drive to expel every undocumented immigrant would deprive California of more than 7% of its workforce, potentially cripple agriculture and construction, divide families and disrupt communities.

From Los Angeles Times

The turmoil escalated when Folt canceled the “main stage” commencement ceremony, depriving students and their families of a treasured ritual.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite Richardson’s erratic behavior, sheriff’s deputies at the station had “no legal justification to deprive her of her freedom,” according to the report.

From Los Angeles Times

He skipped the Republican primary debates, depriving them of political oxygen.

From BBC

Some of the most deprived areas of the West Midlands fear they could lose millions in levelling-up money promised by the previous Conservative government.

From BBC

Related Words

• bankrupt
• bereave
• dispossess
• divest
• rob
• strip