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 of destructive

• devastating
• disastrous
• devastative

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

Tropical Storm Lala is expected to strengthen to a hurricane before reaching Hawaii’s Big Island this weekend, forecasters said Friday, bringing heavy rains that can cause destructive flooding and strong winds that can fuel wildfires. — Jennifer Sinco Kelleher, Los Angeles Times, 15 Aug. 2026

Donalds is a full-bore supporter of the destructive homestead exemption proposal known as Amendment 3 that would cripple local government. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 15 Aug. 2026

But critics say the plan that is in the works is no less destructive. — Ashley Killough, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026

The key is to discern between a demanding leader, who pushes for excellence while respecting boundaries, and a destructive one. — Mark Nevins, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing destructive

• destructive distillation
• self-destructive

Rhymes for destructive

• abductive
• conductive
• constructive
• deductive
• inductive
• instructive
• obstructive
• productive
• reductive
• seductive
• counterproductive
• photoconductive

Kids 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