deprivation

noun

dep·​ri·​va·​tion ˌde-prə-ˈvā-shən 

also

ˌdē-ˌprī- 

1

: the state of being kept from possessing, enjoying, or using something : the state of being deprived : privation

especially : removal from an office, dignity, or benefice

2

: an act or instance of withholding or taking something away from someone or something : an act or instance of depriving : loss

overcoming the deprivations of their childhoods

the hazards of oxygen deprivation

Synonyms

• loss
• privation

Examples of deprivation in a Sentence

She is studying the effects of sleep deprivation.

She eventually overcame the deprivations of her childhood.

Recent Examples on the Web

The poignant portrayal of the struggles of the woman, the stark caste differences and heart-wrenching deprivation won the film wide critical acclaim. —Sweta Kaushal, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

Studies have also shown relationships between sleep and circadian rhythm deprivation and mental health problems, drug use, speeding, delinquent behaviors, educational performance, and employment salaries. —Addy Bink, The Hill, 15 Dec. 2024

Some charges are still pending against Jaynes and Meany, but in August, District Judge Charles Simpson III dismissed felony deprivation of rights under the color of law charges against the pair, ruling Walker's decision to fire at officers that night resulted in her death. —Lucas Aulbach, The Courier-Journal, 12 Dec. 2024

This can be caused by diseases like scurvy, smallpox, and nutritional deprivation. —Sara Novak, Discover Magazine, 10 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see deprive

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing deprivation

• androgen deprivation therapy
• self-deprivation

Medical Definition

deprivation

noun

de·​pri·​va·​tion ˌdep-rə-ˈvā-shən  ˌdē-ˌprī- 

: the act or process of removing or the condition resulting from removal of something normally present and usually essential for mental or physical well-being

his nervous system may have been affected by early oxygen deprivation

—Jack Fincher

sleep deprivation