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.
Goodheart said in her testimony that sleep deprivation -- one of the major reasons Clancy opted for inpatient treatment -- could contribute to a manic episode. — Peter Charalambous, ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026 There may also be benefits related to skin care, respiratory illness, sleep deprivation and even dementia. — Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 Bliss said the postpartum period was marked by sleep deprivation and the challenges of breastfeeding. — Samantha Stutsman, PEOPLE, 31 July 2026 The lawsuit, filed Thursday in the Superior Court of Delaware, claims that the teens suffered years of harm from using the platforms, including social media addiction, severe sleep deprivation, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation. — Mary Cunningham, CBS News, 31 July 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

See All Rhymes for deprivation

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 11 Aug. 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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