destroyer

[ dih-stroi-er ]

noun

1. a person or thing that destroys.
2. a fast, relatively small, warship armed mainly with 5-inch (13-centimeter) guns.

destroyer

/ dɪˈstrɔɪə /

noun

1. a small fast lightly armoured but heavily armed warship
2. a person or thing that destroys

Other Words From

• self-de·stroyer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of destroyer¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English destroiere (compare Old French destruiere ); destroy, -er ¹

Example Sentences

In his Charlottesville manifesto, he wrote, “We have the potential to become nature’s steward or its destroyer.”

From Salon

You can purchase bottles of semi-illicit tonka-infused syrup among other pantry goods at the cafe or on Destroyer’s website.

From Los Angeles Times

He started his reign as chief justice as a coalition forger and then changed into a coalition destroyer.

From Slate

The BBC also understands that Royal Navy Destroyer, HMS Duncan, did not fire any of her Sea Viper missiles.

From BBC

He gave no further details but the BBC understands British military jets did not shoot down any Iranian ballistic missiles nor did the Royal Navy Destroyer, HMS Duncan, fire any Sea Viper missiles.

From BBC

Related Words

• battleship
• ship
• warship