Synonyms of annihilation

annihilation

noun

ə-ˌnī-ə-ˈlā-shən 

as in destruction

the state or fact of being rendered nonexistent, physically unsound, or useless

idealists who seek the annihilation of all forms of prejudice

Synonyms & Similar Words

• destruction
• devastation
• extinction
• havoc
• demolition
• loss
• extermination
• obliteration
• decimation
• wastage
• ruin
• ruination
• demolishment
• wreckage
• desolation
• collapse
• disintegration
• mincemeat
• slaughter
• depredation
• dissolution
• execution
• breakup
• massacre
• killing
• despoliation
• assassination
• despoilment
• eradication
• dismantlement
• effacement

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• construction
• building
• salvation
• erection
• raising
• saving
• rescue
• protection
• preservation
• salvage
• conservation
• restoration
• reconstruction
• reclamation
• remodeling
• renovation
• re-creation
• regeneracy
• refurbishment

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of annihilation

To prove to Miles that Sarah is telling the truth—that his work will lead to humanity’s near-annihilation—the T-800 removes the skin from his hand and forearm, revealing the cyber skeleton underneath. — ArsTechnica, 28 Aug. 2026

Perhaps most viscerally, given the ever-present specter of nuclear annihilation during the Cold War, Capps was appalled by Falwell’s apocalyptic rhetoric and cavalier posture toward global destruction. — Literary Hub, 25 Aug. 2026

O’Neal’s annihilation of Chris Dudley in 1999 showcased his power, footwork and showmanship. — Jason Jones, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026

Then divers found the deadly sea-star wasting disease — the cause of the species' near-annihilation — surging throughout the San Juans. — John Ryan, NPR, 16 Aug. 2026