destructive
adjective
de·struc·tive
di-ˈstrək-tiv 
1
: causing destruction : ruinous
destructive storm
2
: designed or tending to hurt or destroy
destructive criticism
destructively
adverb
destructiveness
noun
Synonyms
Examples of destructive in a Sentence
It was one of the most destructive storms in recent memory.
She argued that the law was destructive of personal liberties.
The school is concerned about the destructive behavior of a few students.
Recent Examples on the Web
But, as climate change becomes increasingly destructive, the need still outstrips the available care.
—
The Arizona Republic, 25 Apr. 2024
An invasive, destructive pest has been found again in Cincinnati.
—Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 25 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for destructive 
The Arizona Republic, 25 Apr. 2024
An invasive, destructive pest has been found again in Cincinnati.
—Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 25 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for destructive
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'destructive.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near destructive
Cite this Entry
“Destructive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/destructive. Accessed 4 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
destructive
adjective
de·struc·tive
di-ˈstrək-tiv
1
: causing destruction : ruinous
a destructive storm
2
: designed or tending to hurt or destroy
destructive criticism
destructively
adverb
destructiveness
noun
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