Destruction

Definition

Destruction refers to the act of causing something to be damaged beyond repair, ruined, or annihilated. It can also signify the process or result of something being completely broken down or rendered unusable.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstrʌkʃən/
• Respelling: dih-STRUK-shun

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstrʌkʃən/
• Respelling: dih-STRUK-shun

The pronunciation of "destruction" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "destruction" comes from the Latin "destructio," which is derived from "destruere," meaning "to tear down" or "demolish." The term entered Middle English in the 14th century and has since been used to describe the act or state of being destroyed or ruined.

Derivatives

• Destroy (verb)
• Destructive (adjective)
• Destructively (adverb)
• Destructible (adjective)
• Self-destruction (noun)

Synonyms

• Demolition
• Annihilation
• Devastation

Antonyms

• Creation
• Construction
• Rebuilding

Usage

The word "destruction" is often used in contexts related to physical damage, such as the demolition of buildings or the effects of natural disasters. It is also applied metaphorically to describe the breakdown or collapse of systems, relationships, or ideals. In warfare and environmental contexts, "destruction" refers to widespread damage caused by conflict or degradation of natural resources.

Related Terms

• Damage: Physical harm caused to something, rendering it less functional or valuable.
• Collapse: The sudden failure or breakdown of a structure or system.
• Eradication: The complete destruction or removal of something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of destroying something: Refers to the process of causing irreparable damage or ruin.
  • Example: "The hurricane caused widespread destruction across the coastline."
• The state of being destroyed: Refers to something that has been ruined or rendered unusable.
  • Example: "The war left many cities in a state of destruction."