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 cliff bee population is declining due to overharvesting, habitat destruction and climate change. — Prayan Pokharel, The Conversation, 27 Aug. 2026 Until the 1990s, the Cold War threatened nuclear destruction over a political fault line that split Europe in half. — Kamal Ahmed, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2026 In response, Ukraine has hit high-profile targets on Russian soil as the countries inflict mutual destruction. — Hanna Arhirova, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026 Research supports the breadth point more clearly than Gates’ prediction of net destruction. — Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 26 Aug. 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 1 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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