Depredating refers to the act of plundering or looting, often in a violent manner. Synonyms for this word include ravaging, pillaging, raiding, marauding, and looting. These words are commonly used to describe the activities of invading armies or raiding parties. Metaphorically, the word can also be used to describe the actions of a person who takes advantage of others, particularly in a financial sense. Some synonyms for this sense of the word include exploiting, defrauding, cheating, and swindling. In any context, depredating suggests a sense of violence, aggression, and exploitation that is harmful to others.