Meaning & Definition of word "Ruin"

Ruin

/ˈruːɪn/

noun:

  • 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.

verb:

  • 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.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

destroy:

To cause the destruction of something.

collapse:

To fall down or give way.

devastate:

To cause severe and overwhelming shock or grief.

Slang Meanings of ruin

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!