destroys; destroyed; destroying
1
: to cause (something) to end or no longer exist : to cause the destruction of (something)
Eventually our problems with money destroyed our marriage.
All the files were deliberately destroyed.
The disease destroys the body's ability to fight off illness.
: to damage (something) so badly that it cannot be repaired
The bomb blast destroyed the village.
The scandal destroyed [=ruined] his reputation.
The building was partially destroyed [=demolished] by fire.
2
: to kill (an animal) especially because it is sick, injured, or dangerous
The dog had to be destroyed since its owner could not prevent it from attacking people.
3
informal
: to defeat (someone or something) easily or completely
They destroyed [=demolished] the other team 51-7.
Cite this Entry
“Destroy.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/destroy. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
