destroyer

noun

de·​stroy·​er di-ˈstrȯi(-ə)r 

dē-

1

: one that destroys

2

: a small fast warship used especially to support larger vessels and usually armed with guns, depth charges, torpedoes, and often guided missiles

Examples of destroyer in a Sentence

The pamphlet describes alcohol as a destroyer of families.

Recent Examples on the Web

To this end, a large installation on Flight III destroyers is considerably more capable than the smaller variants intended for other vessels. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 23 Aug. 2026

Another Arleigh Burke-class destroyer assigned to the GWCSG, the USS Benfold (DDG-65), returned to Yokosuka earlier this month after suffering a power failure while operating in the South China Sea in July. — Peter Suciu, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026

The destroyer was left withough functioning toilets, air conditioning, galley services or reliable drinking water. — Alexx Altman-Devilbiss, Baltimore Sun, 19 Aug. 2026

Paul Pennson, North Hollywood, defensive lineman, senior The size might not stand out at first glance, but there’s a destroyer in hiding for the Huskies with Pennson leading the pass rush. — Ethan Hanson, Daily News, 19 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing destroyer

• destroyer escort
• self-destroyer
• tank destroyer

Rhymes for destroyer

• employer
• foyer
• oyer
• multiemployer

Kids Definition

destroyer

noun

de·​stroy·​er di-ˈstrȯi(-ə)r 

1

: one that destroys

2

: a small fast warship armed with guns, depth charges, torpedoes, and often guided missiles