Synonyms for

Destroyed

Verb / dɪˈstrɔɪd / Another word for destroyed — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To cause something to no longer exist or be usable

Synonyms & similar words

destroy demolish ruined destruct ruin preserved putdown demolished ruined wrecked annihilated devastated eradicated extinguished obliterated smashed terminated abolished eliminated erased expunged extirpated liquidated overthrew razed uprooted vandalized

Synonyms by register

Formal

annihilated demolished obliterated ruined

Informal

wrecked trashed ruined smashed

Literary

shattered devastated undone

Antonyms

created built made constructed formed originated established

Common collocations

  • completely destroyed
  • utterly destroyed
  • accidentally destroyed
  • purposefully destroyed
  • destroyed the evidence
  • destroyed the city
  • destroyed his career
  • destroyed the planet

Word family

noun destruction
verb destroy
adjective destructive
adverb destructively

Usage note

Often used to describe the complete ruin of something, implying it can no longer function. Can be used literally or figuratively.

Example sentences

  1. The fire destroyed the entire forest.
  2. The tornado destroyed the school playground.
  3. The earthquake destroyed many historical buildings.
  4. The flood destroyed the farmer's crops.
  5. The army destroyed the enemy's base camp.

Quotes

  • We have met the enemy and he is us. - Walt Kelly
  • There is no easy way to train for war. - Harrison Ford
  • I am become death, destroyer of worlds. - J. Robert Oppenheimer

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