Meaning & Definition of word "Destroy"
to
Destroy
/dɪˈstrɔɪ/
verb:
- 1. To cause the destruction of; to ruin completely.
- Example: The wildfire threatened to destroy the entire forest.
- 2. To put an end to the existence of something.
- Example: The new policy aims to destroy discrimination in the workplace.
- 3. To cause irreparable damage to.
- Example: The storm did not just damage the house, it completely destroyed it.
- 4. To kill or extinguish.
- Example: The pest control team worked to destroy the infestation of termites.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'destruire', from Latin 'destruere' (to undo, dismantle, demolish).
Common Phrases and Expressions
destroy the evidence:
To eliminate or remove evidence of wrongdoing.
destroy a relationship:
To negatively impact or end a relationship.
destroy someone's dreams:
To crush or halt someone's aspirations.
Related Words
destruction:
The act of destroying; the process of being destroyed.
destructive:
Causing great and irreparable harm; damaging.
destroyer:
A person or thing that destroys.
Slang Meanings of destroy
Meaning: To ace or to do something extremely well.
Example Sentence: He destroyed that exam, getting a perfect score.
Meaning: To defeat someone badly in a game or competition.
Example Sentence: Our team destroyed them in the finals.