Destroyer: meaning, definitions and examples

A smaller, fast, and maneuverable warship designed to protect larger ships and conduct anti-submarine and anti-aircraft operations.

• The Navy deployed destroyers to escort the aircraft carrier.
• A state-of-the-art destroyer intercepted the enemy missiles.

A general term for any navy ship designed for warfare, including destroyers, battleships, cruisers, and others.

• The fleet consisted of several types of warships, including submarines and aircraft carriers.
• The new warship was commissioned to enhance the naval defense capabilities.

A large, heavily armored warship with big guns, used primarily during the first half of the 20th century for engaging other ships.

• The museum displays a famous battleship from World War II.
• The battleship's powerful cannons shelled the enemy coastline.

A versatile warship that possesses the speed and firepower to engage with enemy ships and support fleet operations. It is smaller than a battleship but larger than a destroyer.

• The cruiser patrolled the international waters to ensure safe passage.
• During the naval exercise, the cruiser showcased its advanced radar systems.

A 'destroyer' is often used in a general context to describe someone or something that causes destruction. It can be used in both physical and metaphorical senses.

• The hurricane was a destroyer, leveling everything in its path
• His lies made him a destroyer of trust

A 'devastator' refers to an entity that causes extreme damage or destruction, often leaving complete ruin in its wake. It’s typically more intense and impactful than 'destroyer'.

• The wildfire acted as a devastator, leaving the entire forest in ashes
• The economic collapse was a devastator for many small businesses

A 'ruiner' is used to describe someone or something that spoils or severely damages a particular situation or condition. This term is often used in a negative context and can refer to personal relationships or plans.

• His constant criticism was a ruiner of her self-esteem
• The rain turned out to be the ruiner of their picnic plans

A 'wrecker' is typically used to describe someone or something that physically destroys structures or vehicles. It can also be used metaphorically for ruining plans or relationships.

• The demolition crew used a wrecker to tear down the old building
• Her meddling was a wrecker of their friendship