loot
UK: luːt | US: luːt
n. stolen goods, especially during war or riots
vt. to steal goods, typically during a chaotic event
vi. to engage in stealing during unrest
No data yet.
The word "loot" originates from the Hindi word "lūṭ" (लूट), meaning "plunder" or "spoils of war." It entered English during the British colonial period in India (18th–19th centuries), reflecting the appropriation of goods by force. The term retains its core meaning of unlawfully seized valuables, often in contexts of violence or disorder. Its concise, punchy sound mirrors the abruptness of the act it describes.
The invaders took all the loot from the village.
Rioters began to loot stores after the protest turned violent.
The museum's artifacts were recovered from thieves who tried to loot them.
Pirates hid their loot on a remote island.
After the earthquake, some people exploited the chaos to loot abandoned homes.