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

The US supported the defensive operation, firing interceptors from two naval destroyers in the eastern Mediterranean, alongside support from some European and Arab countries.

From BBC

Two Japanese destroyers visiting in February were instead told to dock at the nearby town of Sihanoukville.

From BBC

But Celtic don't really have a player who is made that way, a destroyer, a guy who can sense danger, a character who can - Lord forbid - let Brandt know he's there.

From BBC

Mitchell Johnson did similar too as he went from the butt of Barmy Army jokes to Ashes destroyer.

From BBC

Related Words

• battleship
• ship
• warship