Definition

A person who takes or destroys something that belongs to someone else, often in a legal context.

Example

The spoliator was held responsible for the damage caused to the historical artifacts.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a spoliator?

No, I haven’t. What does it mean?

It's someone who destroys or damages something, often in a legal context.

That sounds serious! I hope I never meet a spoliator.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Spoliator → It is formed from "spoliare" (meaning to strip or plunder) and "-tor" (a suffix indicating an agent or doer). The word "spoliator" refers to one who strips away or plunders, often in a legal context.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'strips away' ('spoliare') something valuable — that's why a spoliator is someone who takes or plunders.

Visually Confused Words