Destroy
/dɪˈstrɔɪ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo cause so much damage to something that it no longer exists or can no longer be used.
/dɪˈstrɔɪ/
To put an end to the existence of (something) by damaging or attacking it.
The fire destroyed the entire forest.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a really cool LEGO castle. If you smash it with a hammer, you've destroyed it! Destroy means to completely ruin something.
👶 For kids: To break something so it can't be used anymore.
More Examples
The hurricane destroyed many homes.
He destroyed the evidence to hide his crime.
How It's Used
"The enemy's forces were destroyed in the battle."
"The old building was destroyed to make way for a new one."
To severely damage or ruin something abstract, such as feelings, relationships, or opportunities.
/dɪˈstrɔɪ/
To end the existence of (something) by damaging it.
The scandal destroyed his reputation.
💡 Simply: Imagine your friend tells a secret and it causes a big fight. That fight destroys the friendship. It's when something bad makes something good disappear or stop working well.
👶 For kids: To make something go away by hurting it.
More Examples
The loss destroyed her spirit.
This constant negativity will destroy our relationship.
How It's Used
"The news destroyed her hopes."
"Grief can destroy a person."
Idioms & expressions
destroy the environment
To cause significant damage to the natural world.
"Industrial pollution and deforestation can destroy the environment."
destroy a relationship
To end or severely damage a relationship.
"Lack of trust and communication can destroy a relationship."
From Middle English destruien, from Old French destruire, from Latin destruere ('to demolish'), from de- ('down, away') + struere ('to build').
The word 'destroy' has been used in similar contexts for centuries, appearing in both military and religious contexts to indicate total devastation.
Memory tip
Think of a wrecking ball. It's meant to destroy things.
Word Origin
"to demolish, to ruin"