destroy
|de/stroy|
B1
/dɪˈstrɔɪ/
complete ruin
Etymology
Etymology Information
'destroy' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'destruire,' where 'des-' meant 'apart' and 'struere' meant 'to build.'
Historical Evolution
'destruire' transformed into the Middle English word 'destroyen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'destroy.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to unbuild or demolish,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to cause complete ruin or defeat.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to cause so much damage to something that it no longer exists or cannot be repaired.
The hurricane destroyed the small town.
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Antonyms
Verb 2
to defeat someone completely.
The team destroyed their opponents in the final match.
Synonyms
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35