deprivation

noun

dep·​ri·​va·​tion ˌde-prə-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce deprivation (audio)
also
ˌdē-ˌprī- How to pronounce deprivation (audio)
Synonyms of deprivation
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
sleep deprivation

Synonyms of deprivation

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The rare mental illness is linked to stress, sleep deprivation and hormonal changes following childbirth. — Michael Casey, Chicago Tribune, 27 Aug. 2026 Crucially, Brenners isn’t some communal-dining deprivation retreat. — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 23 Aug. 2026 Rather than centering on deprivation, the program emphasizes creating space for mental clarity and balance. — Jill Schildhouse, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026 Some research suggests sleep deprivation can alter metabolism and decrease BMR. — Jillian Kubala, HEALTH, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for deprivation

Word History

Etymology

see deprive

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of deprivation was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing deprivation

Rhymes for deprivation

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Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Deprivation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deprivation. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

deprivation

noun
de·​pri·​va·​tion ˌdep-rə-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce deprivation (audio) ˌdē-ˌprī- How to pronounce deprivation (audio)
: 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
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