Word DESTROY: meanings, synonyms & antonyms

destroy

🇺🇸 [dɪˈstrɔɪ]

Meanings

To completely ruin, damage, or put an end to something, often in a violent or forceful manner. Destruction can apply to both physical objects, such as buildings or vehicles, and abstract concepts, like hopes or relationships.

Examples

• The fire destroyed the entire building in just a few hours.
• He accidentally destroyed the files on his computer.
• The storm destroyed many homes along the coast.
• They promised not to destroy the evidence during the investigation.
• The earthquake destroyed the historic monument.

Synonyms

demolish • ruin • obliterate

Antonyms

construct • build • create