Destroyer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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destroyer

[dษชหˆstrษ”ษชษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

warship

A destroyer is a fast, maneuverable warship designed for both offensive and defensive operations. They are typically equipped with powerful weapons and advanced technology to combat enemy ships and submarines.

Synonyms

battleship, cruiser, warship.

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Word Description / Examples
destroyer

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.
warship

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.
battleship

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.
cruiser

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.

Examples of usage

  • The destroyer quickly engaged the enemy fleet.
  • The navy deployed several destroyers to protect the coastline.
Context #2 | Noun

person or thing that destroys

A destroyer can also refer to a person or thing that causes great harm, damage, or ruin. It is often used metaphorically to describe something that causes devastation or destruction.

Synonyms

devastator, ruiner, wrecker.

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Word Description / Examples
destroyer

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
devastator

A 'devastator' refers to an entity that causes extreme damage or destruction, often leaving complete ruin in its wake. Itโ€™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
ruiner

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
wrecker

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

Examples of usage

  • The hurricane was a real destroyer, leaving a path of destruction in its wake.
  • Alcohol can be a silent destroyer of families and relationships.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Military

  • In the military context, a destroyer is a type of warship designed to destroy other ships and submarines, emphasizing its destructive capability.
  • The first modern destroyer was launched in the late 19th century and was used primarily for fleet protection.

Pop Culture

  • The term has appeared frequently in movies, often portraying villains or destructive forces, such as in superhero films.
  • In the gaming world, 'destroyers' can refer to characters or units that have special powers to cause massive destruction.

Psychology

  • The idea of a 'destroyer' can symbolize internal struggles, representing the aspects of ourselves that can cause harm or negativity.
  • In psychological terms, destructive behavior could relate to mechanisms of coping with trauma or personal conflict.

Literature

  • In many heroic tales, the destroyer often serves as an antagonist, representing chaos that the hero must overcome.
  • Poets and authors may use the term metaphorically to describe loss or the end of something cherished.

Origin of 'destroyer'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'destroier', stemming from 'destruere', which means to break down or demolish.
  • It began to be used in English around the 14th century, often to describe forces that cause significant harm or loss.

The term 'destroyer' originated in the late 19th century as a classification for a type of fast and heavily armed warship. It was primarily used by the navies of various countries to protect capital ships and convoys from enemy threats. The role and capabilities of destroyers have evolved over time, reflecting advancements in naval warfare technology and tactics.


See also: destroy, destruction, indestructible.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,020, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.