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Definition of exploitation
exploitation
/ˌɛk.splɔɪˈteɪ.ʃən/
ex · ploi · ta · tion
Adverb:exploitatively
•Plural:exploitations
•Adjective:exploitative
exploitation Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
8
Tier
2
Usage
Top 5k
Syllables
4
exploitation Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
The action or fact of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work or vulnerability.
Example
"New labor laws were passed to prevent the exploitation of seasonal agricultural workers."
2
The action of making productive use of and benefiting from natural, economic, or technical resources.
Example
"Sustainable regulations are needed to balance the commercial exploitation of mineral deposits with environmental conservation."
Synonyms
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View all antonyms for exploitation• Rhymes for exploitation
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the early 19th century from French 'exploitation', derived from 'exploiter' ('to make productive or turn to advantage'), which ultimately traces back to Latin 'explicitare' ('to unfold or display').
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Exploitation. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/exploitation