destruction

noun

de·​struc·​tion di-ˈstrək-shən How to pronounce destruction (audio)
Synonyms of destruction
1
: the state or fact of being destroyed : ruin
scenes of death and destruction
the destruction of their careers
2
: the action or process of destroying something
the destruction of the building
3
: a destroying agency
Alcohol will be his destruction.

Synonyms of destruction

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Examples of destruction in a Sentence

War results in death and widespread destruction. We are trying to save the building from destruction.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The destruction also forced the McDermotts to close Caddy Shacks during a particularly important stretch for the seasonal resort town. — Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 3 Sep. 2026 Habitat destruction threatens the species in some parts of its range. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Sep. 2026 Comparing himself to anti-capitalist killer Luigi Mangione, the suspect has sparked online debate in Southern California’s warehouse belt over crushing living costs, stagnant pay and growing sympathy for politically motivated destruction. — Jack Dolan, Los Angeles Times, 3 Sep. 2026 Shah, the Nepali prime minister, detailed on Tuesday the destruction throughout several regions in Nepal, saying that at least 48 suspension bridges had been damaged. — Kevin Shalvey, ABC News, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for destruction

Word History

Etymology

Middle English destruccioun, from Anglo-French destruction, from Latin destruction-, destructio, from destruere — see destroy

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of destruction was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing destruction

Rhymes for destruction

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Browse Nearby Words

destructible
destruction
destructional
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Cite this Entry

“Destruction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/destruction. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

destruction

noun
de·​struc·​tion di-ˈstrək-shən How to pronounce destruction (audio)
1
: the state or fact of being destroyed : ruin
2
: the action or process of destroying something
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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