What does loot mean?
Loot denotes valuable possessions taken by force, especially during a war, riot, or other period of disorder, and it can also be used informally for possessions regarded as riches or valuables. As a verb, loot means to plunder, rob, or seize property. The distinction is chiefly one of emphasis: as a noun, it focuses on the property acquired; as a verb, it focuses on the act of taking it. Historically, the word became established in British India through the Hindi lūṭ, meaning robbery or plunder, and it later entered general English usage in the early nineteenth century. Modern usage often carries strong associations with conflict, lawlessness, and opportunism, though the informal sense for treasured possessions is also familiar. Loot contrasts with ordinary theft because it is especially associated with property seized amid violence or chaos.
Goods or money taken by force, especially during war, rioting, or other violence; in informal use, valuable possessions collectively.
"The abandoned house was filled with loot from the warehouse next door."
Usually a mass noun rather than a countable noun.
To plunder, rob, or seize valuable property, especially during conflict or disorder.
"Mobs looted shops in the centre of the city."
Common in accounts of war, riot, and other situations in which property is seized amid disorder.
Loot is normally used as an uncountable noun. A plural is uncommon and generally unnecessary.
"The soldiers divided the loot among themselves."
Loot entered English from the Hindi word lūṭ, meaning plunder or robbery, a linguistic trace of the long-standing links between Britain and South Asia.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does loot come from?
The word entered English in the early nineteenth century from the Hindi lūṭ, meaning robbery or plunder, which is related to Sanskrit lūṭa, “plunder, robbery.” English speakers in British India encountered the term during the period of colonial rule, and it subsequently spread into wider English use. The modern verb developed naturally from the earlier sense of taking property by force.
Related word forms
How loot is actually used
The noun is commonly treated as a mass noun, so a plural is rarely used. The verb is strongly associated with theft or seizure during conflict, riot, or disorder; in informal use, it can also mean to rob or raid.
Easily confused with loot
Loot is property taken by force, whereas a lot is an individual item or a group assigned for sale.
Loot refers to plunder or stolen goods, while a lute is a stringed musical instrument.