Meaning & Definition of word "Ruin"

Ruin

/ˈruːɪn/

1. The physical collapse or destruction of a structure or object.
- Example: The ancient ruins of the castle still attract many tourists every year.
2. The state of being destroyed or severely damaged.
- Example: Years of neglect led to the ruin of the historic site.
3. A situation in which someone loses everything they have; financial or personal disaster.
- Example: His reckless gambling led to his financial ruin.

1. To destroy or damage something severely.
- Example: The flood ruined many homes in the area.
2. To cause someone to lose their social position or self-respect.
- Example: The scandal could ruin her career.
3. To spoil something completely; to make it unusable or irreparable.
- Example: The spilled paint ruined the beautiful canvas.

Middle English, from Old French 'ruine', from Latin 'ruina', meaning 'a falling down, collapse'.

in ruins:

Completely destroyed or damaged.

ruin someone's day:

To spoil or negatively affect someone's day.

ruin a reputation:

To damage or destroy one's good standing.

destroy:

To cause the destruction of something.

collapse:

To fall down or give way.

devastate:

To cause severe and overwhelming shock or grief.

Meaning: To mess something up extremely.

Example Sentence: He totally ruined that project with his mistakes.

Meaning: To spoil fun or enjoyment.

Example Sentence: Don't ruin my fun by complaining!