Definitions

destroy

[dih-stroi] / dɪˈstrɔɪ /

VERB

demolish, devastate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

consume crush damage dismantle end eradicate gut impair kill maim ravage raze ruin sabotage shatter smash smash-up wipe out wreck

STRONG

abort annihilate annul axe butcher cream deface desolate despoil dispatch erase exterminate extinguish extirpate level liquidate mar maraud mutilate nuke nullify overturn quash quell ravish slay suppress torpedo total trash vaporize waste wax zap

WEAK

blot out break down lay waste snuff out spoliate stamp out swallow up tear down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid assist bear begin build construct create fix give birth help lose mend repair start

STRONG

improve keep preserve retain save validate

WEAK

restore

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Nature is angry with us because we destroy everything," she said.

From Barron's • Jun. 25, 2026

Together, they developed a research program to determine whether niacin can restore the function of weakened immune cells and help them destroy tumor cells.

From Science Daily • Jun. 22, 2026

It can destroy everything in the boat's wake and multiple incidents have shown significant damage to the marine ecosystem.

From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026

Along with directed-energy weapons, AeroVironment makes drones known as “loitering munitions” designed to destroy enemy armored vehicles, as well as various systems for use against drones.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 22, 2026

If the Mountain could destroy the courage of one such as Strong Jonn, who feared nothing, what could it do to Rowan of the Bukshah, who feared everything?

From "Rowan of Rin" by Emily Rodda

Vocabulary lists containing destroy

Beowulf vocabulary

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"Frankenstein"

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Workshop 2, Part 1

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