Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
×

destructor

noun de·struc·tor \ də̇ˈstrəktə(r) , dēˈ- \

Definition of destructor

plural -s
1 : a furnace or oven for the burning of refuse : incinerator
2 a : a device for destroying a missile or a part thereof at a desired time in its flight
b : an explosive device for enabling quick destruction of matériel to prevent its falling into the hands of the enemy

There's more!

Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!
Already a subscriber? Log in.

Origin and Etymology of destructor

Late Latin destructor destroyer, from Latin destructus + -or

Learn More about destructor

  1. See words that rhyme with destructor Spanish Central: Translation of destructor

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up destructor? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games