verb to steal, plunder, or rob of goods or valuables by force, especially in time of war; loot
Authors in the genre of dystopian fiction frequently employ 'despoil' to depict the ruin and decay of societies or landscapes in their narratives.
Historians may use 'despoil' to discuss the pillaging and ravaging of cities and territories during wars and conquests.
In the context of environmental science, 'despoil' is used to describe the destruction or degradation of natural habitats and ecosystems.
Archaeologists often use the term 'despoil' to refer to the act of looting or plundering ancient sites and artifacts.
The writer used the term 'despoil' to describe the actions of the antagonist in the novel, highlighting the destruction and pillaging of the protagonist's home.
The psychologist discussed the impact of despoilment on a person's mental health, emphasizing the feelings of violation and loss associated with such experiences.