Deprive

Definition

Deprive means to take something away from someone or prevent them from having or enjoying something. It can refer to withholding necessities, rights, or privileges, often leading to disadvantage or suffering.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈpraɪv/
• Respelling: dih-PRYV

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈpraɪv/
• Respelling: dih-PRYV

The pronunciation of "deprive" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "deprive" is derived from the Latin word "deprivare," meaning "to rob" or "to remove." The prefix "de-" means "from" or "away," and "privare" means "to strip" or "to deprive." The term entered Middle English in the 14th century, maintaining its meaning of taking something away from someone.

Derivatives

• Deprivation (noun)
• Deprived (adjective)
• Depriving (verb)
• Undeprived (adjective)
• Depriver (noun)

Synonyms

• Deny
• Strip
• Withhold

Antonyms

• Give
• Bestow
• Provide

Usage

The word "deprive" is commonly used to describe situations where someone is denied access to something essential or important, such as food, sleep, or rights. It can be used in various contexts, including legal, social, and emotional situations. For example: "The prisoners were deprived of basic human rights," or "Lack of sleep can deprive a person of mental clarity."

Related Terms

• Deprivation: The state of being deprived of something, especially something essential like food or sleep.
• Neglect: The failure to provide something needed for a person’s well-being.
• Denial: The act of refusing to grant or allow something requested or needed.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To take something away from someone: Refers to denying someone access to or use of something essential or important.
  • Example: "The drought deprived the village of fresh water."
• To prevent someone from having or enjoying something: Refers to withholding rights, privileges, or necessities, resulting in suffering or hardship.
  • Example: "They were deprived of their right to a fair trial."