1
a
: the act of plundering
b
: the state of having been plundered especially in war
2
: the act of injuring especially beyond reclaim

Examples of spoliation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That amounts to spoliation, the defense claims, and should result in the dismissal of the charges against Trump. Perry Stein, Washington Post, 30 June 2024 The West should also prepare for a Russia that inflicts even greater spoliation on a global scale—but not drive it to do so. Stephen Kotkin, Foreign Affairs, 18 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French spoliacion, Latin spoliation-, spoliatio, from spoliare to plunder — more at spoil entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of spoliation was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near spoliation

Cite this Entry

“Spoliation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spoliation. Accessed 9 Jan. 2025.

Legal Definition

spoliation

noun
1
: the destruction, alteration, or mutilation of evidence especially by a party for whom the evidence is damaging
2
: alteration or mutilation of an instrument (as a will) by one who is not a party to the instrument
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