destroy
/dəˈstrɔɪ/
Reviewed on
Type
Verb
Meaning
To damage something so severely that it no longer exists, cannot function, or cannot be repaired.
The fire quickly spread and destroyed three historic buildings downtown.
Will this storm destroy our crops?
To kill an animal intentionally, especially because it is sick, injured, or dangerous.
The veterinarian had to destroy the injured horse after the accident.
Several rabid animals were destroyed by wildlife officials last week.
To defeat an opponent thoroughly and convincingly in a contest or debate.
Our team destroyed their defense in the final quarter of the match.
She destroyed the opposing argument during the cross-examination.
How it's used
This means “damage beyond repair”
- destroy the evidence
“destroy it.”
He tried to destroy the evidence before the detectives arrived.
Collocations
- destroy evidence
- completely destroy
- destroy trust
- destroy hopes
- destroy confidence
- destroy an animal
- destroy the competition