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

Even linked the attack on the naval destroyer in Yemen to Iran, even though it's often attributed to al-Qaida. —CBS News, 1 Mar. 2026

The flattop launched jet attacks against Iran on Saturday while at least one of its escort ships, the destroyer USS Spruance, fired Tomahawk cruise missiles at Iranian targets, according to the US Central Command and the Navy. —Gary Robbins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Feb. 2026

Another aircraft carrier is on the way to the region, with more naval destroyers in tow. —Francesca Chambers, USA Today, 21 Feb. 2026

Although their destroyer was somewhat imprudently named HMS Brazen. —Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 21 Feb. 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