Ruin

Definition

Ruin can refer to the physical destruction or disintegration of something, rendering it imperfect or dysfunctional. It can also signify a state of financial failure or impoverishment.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈruːɪn/
• Respelling: ROO-in (with "ROO" as in "moon," and "in" as in "bin")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈruːɪn/
• Respelling: ROO-in (similar to American English, with "ROO" as in "moon," and "in" as in "bin")

In both dialects, "ruin" features a long "oo" sound in the first syllable, followed by a short "i" sound in the second, making it a two-syllable word. The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "ruin" originates from Middle English ruine, from Old French, from Latin ruīna, from ruere, meaning 'to collapse'.

Derivatives

• Ruinous
• Ruination
• Ruiner
• Unruined
• Inruinable

Synonyms

• Destruction
• Devastation
• Decay

Antonyms

• Preservation
• Construction
• Restoration

Usage

The term "ruin" is widely used to describe the state of something that has been destroyed or has deteriorated significantly. It is also used to denote financial failure or the downfall of something, such as a career or reputation.

Related Terms

• Dilapidation
• Dereliction
• Decrepitude

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The physical destruction or disintegration of something: The remaining pieces or the state of something that has been destroyed.‍
• Example: The ruins of the ancient temple still stand as a reminder of a bygone era.

• A state of financial failure or impoverishment: An instance of becoming poor or bankrupt.‍
• Example: After the stock market crash, many experienced financial ruin.

Verb

• To reduce (a building or place) to a state of decay, collapse, or disintegration: To destroy or cause significant damage to a structure or place.‍
• Example: The earthquake ruined many historical sites.

• To cause the downfall or destruction of (something): To severely damage, devastate or destroy something.‍
• Example: Scandals have the potential to ruin careers.