What does deprived mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/dɪˈpraɪvd/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Lacking something considered necessary or desirable, often due to circumstances or actions beyond one’s control.

Examples

• The child was deprived of her favorite toy due to her misbehavior.
• The community was deprived of access to clean water due to the drought.

Synonyms

• Disadvantaged
• Underprivileged
• Denied

Antonyms

• Privileged
• Advantaged
• Entitled

Additional Information

The term “deprived” can be used in various contexts, including social, economic, and emotional situations. It often implies a sense of loss or lack, and can be used to describe individuals, groups, or communities. For instance, a person may be deprived of their freedom, a community may be deprived of access to education, or a child may be deprived of emotional support.

In social and economic contexts, deprivation can refer to the lack of access to basic necessities such as food, water, shelter, healthcare, and education. This can be due to various factors, including poverty, inequality, and social exclusion.

In emotional contexts, deprivation can refer to the lack of emotional support, love, or nurturing. This can be due to various factors, including neglect, abuse, or trauma.

Etymology

The word “deprived” comes from the Old French word “depriver,” which means “to take away” or “to remove.” This word is derived from the Latin words “de” (meaning “from” or “away”) and “privare” (meaning “to take away” or “to deprive”).

Usage Notes

The word “deprived” can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, it is often used in formal or written contexts, such as in academic or professional writing.

When using the word “deprived,” it is essential to consider the context and the intended meaning. For instance, using the word to describe a person who is lacking a luxury item may come across as insensitive or dismissive.

Cultural References

The concept of deprivation has been explored in various cultural contexts, including literature, art, and music. For example, the novel “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck explores the theme of economic deprivation during the Great Depression.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Deprived of one’s rights
• Deprived of one’s freedom
• Deprived of one’s dignity

Related Words or Phrases

• Disadvantaged
• Underprivileged
• Denied
• Dispossessed

Collocations

• Deprived of access to
• Deprived of the opportunity to
• Deprived of one’s rights

Frequency of Use

The word “deprived” is moderately common in modern language. It is often used in formal or written contexts, but can also be used in informal conversations.

Common Misspellings

• Deprived
• Deprived of
• Deprived from