demolishes; demolished; demolishing
1
a
: to destroy (a building, bridge, etc.) : to forcefully tear down or take apart (a structure)
The old factory was demolished to make way for a new parking lot.
Tons of explosives were used to demolish the building.
The town hopes to restore the old theater rather than have it demolished.
b
: to damage (something) so that it cannot be repaired
The car was demolished in the accident.
—often used figurativelyHis professional reputation was demolished [=ruined] by the scandal.
The research demolished several myths about the disease.
Her study demolished a theory that had gone unquestioned for years.
2
informal
: to eat all of (something) quickly
We demolished [=devoured] the pie in only a few minutes.
3
informal
: to defeat (a person or team) easily or completely
They demolished the other team 51-7.
Cite this Entry
“Demolish.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/demolish. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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