Obliterate

Definition

The verb "obliterate" means (1) to destroy or remove all traces of something completely; (2) to erase or wipe out from memory or recognition; and (3) to render indistinct or undecipherable by obscuring or wearing away.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /əˈblɪtəreɪt/
• Respelling: uh-BLI-tuh-rate

British English

• IPA: /əˈblɪt(ə)reɪt/
• Respelling: uh-BLIT-uh-rate

Etymology

From Latin obliterare “to smear out, efface,” from ob- “against” + littera “letter.” Entered English in the early 17th century.

Derivatives

• Obliteration (noun)
• Obliterated (adjective)
• Obliterative (adjective)

Synonyms

• Destroy
• Erase
• Expunge
• Wipe out

Antonyms

• Create
• Preserve
• Maintain
• Reinstate

Usage

"Obliterate" appears in contexts of destruction, memory, and erosion. Examples: "The explosion obliterated the building," "Time obliterated her recollections," and "Acid rain obliterated the inscriptions."

Related Terms

• Erase: To remove completely.
• Destroy: To cause ruin or end existence.
• Efface: To wipe out or make invisible.
• Annihilate: To destroy utterly.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To destroy completely: Refers to eliminating all physical traces.
  • Example: "The earthquake obliterated the coastal town."
• To erase from memory or recognition: Refers to wiping out recollection or record.
  • Example: "Years of therapy could not completely obliterate the trauma."
• To render indistinct or undecipherable: Refers to obscuring or wearing away details.
  • Example: "Graffiti had obliterated the original mural."