Definition of loot

lootverb

cướp bóc

/luːt//luːt/

The word "loot" has a fascinating history! It originates from the Hindi word "लूट" (lūṭ), which means "plunder" or "spoils of war." This Hindi word is derived from the Sanskrit word "लुलुत" (luluṭa), which means "robbery" or "plundering." The word "loot" was introduced to English by British colonialists in India during the 17th and 18th centuries. Initially, it referred to the plundering of enemy camps, cities, or territories in conflict, especially during the Mughal Empire and the British Raj. Over time, the meaning of "loot" expanded to include the act of plundering or pillaging, often in a more general sense. Today, the word "loot" is commonly used in various contexts, such as gaming, treasure hunting, or even burglary. Its origins in Hindi reveal the complex cultural exchange and linguistic borrowing that took place during the colonial era.

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to steal things from shops or buildings after a riot, fire, etc.

ăn trộm đồ đạc từ các cửa hàng hoặc tòa nhà sau một cuộc bạo loạn, hỏa hoạn, v.v.

Example:
  • More than 20 shops were looted.

    Hơn 20 cửa hàng bị cướp phá

  • The invaders rampaged through the streets, looting and killing.

    Những kẻ xâm lược hoành hành trên đường phố, cướp bóc và giết chóc.

to steal something (from somebody/something)

ăn trộm cái gì (từ ai/cái gì)

Example:
  • A gang went through the train and looted money from passengers.

    Một băng nhóm đi qua tàu và cướp tiền của hành khách.

  • Clothes and jewellery were looted from her house.

    Quần áo và đồ trang sức đã bị cướp khỏi nhà cô.

to steal money or property from a person or a place

ăn cắp tiền hoặc tài sản từ một người hoặc một nơi

Example:
  • The Government is looting the public.

    Chính phủ đang cướp bóc công chúng.

  • He was stopped by the police while trying to loot a bank.

    Anh ta bị cảnh sát chặn lại khi đang cố cướp một ngân hàng.

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