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Ruin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ruin

[ˈruːɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

historical

The physical destruction or disintegration of something. Ruin can refer to both the process and the end result of something being destroyed.

Synonyms

decay, destruction, dilapidation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ruin

See first entry for 'ruin'.
destruction

Used when referring to complete annihilation or extensive damage to something, often by an intentional act or disaster.

  • The hurricane left a path of destruction in its wake
  • The massive explosion resulted in the complete destruction of the building
decay

Typically used to describe the gradual process of decline or decomposition, often in organic matter or moral conditions. It can signify both physical and metaphorical deterioration.

  • The smell of decay filled the air as we walked through the abandoned house
  • The moral decay of the society was concerning
dilapidation

Usually refers to buildings or structures that have fallen into a state of disrepair or neglect.

  • They bought a house in a state of dilapidation, hoping to renovate it
  • The dilapidation of the old factory was evident

Examples of usage

  • The ancient ruins of the city were a reminder of its former glory.
  • The ruins of the old castle were now overgrown with vegetation.
Context #2 | Verb

transitive

To damage or destroy something irreparably. Ruin can also refer to the action of causing something to fall into a state of disrepair.

Synonyms

destroy, spoil, wreck.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ruin

Used when something is damaged or destroyed to the point that it cannot be repaired or used anymore. Often refers to buildings, plans, or personal lives.

  • The war left the city in ruins
  • His gambling problem could ruin his life
destroy

Indicates complete demolition or defeat, leaving nothing in a usable state. Often used in stronger, more dramatic contexts.

  • The fire destroyed the entire village
  • The army destroyed the enemy's base
wreck

Emphasizes physical or structural damage, often used for vehicles or buildings. Can also mean to mess up plans or situations severely.

  • The car was completely wrecked in the accident
  • Her sudden decision to leave wrecked our weekend plans
spoil

Refers to minor or moderate damage that diminishes the quality or enjoyment of something, but does not completely ruin it. Can also mean to ruin the surprise or outcome.

  • Don't let the rain spoil our picnic
  • He spoiled the movie by telling the ending

Examples of usage

  • The fire completely ruined the old building.
  • She felt that one mistake had ruined her chances of success.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Many ancient civilizations built grand structures, now in ruin, which serve as cultural heritage sites and are explored by historians.
  • Ruins are often depicted in romance and gothic literature, representing lost glory and evoking a sense of nostalgia.

Psychology

  • Experiencing a 'ruin' can lead to feelings of loss or melancholy, as individuals reflect on what was once there.
  • The concept of ruin can also symbolize failure and the importance of rebuilding in personal development.

Architecture

  • In architecture, ruins provide insights into historical construction techniques and the lifestyle of past societies.
  • Archaeologists study ruins to understand how societies adapted to changes over time, including environmental challenges.

Art and Literature

  • Artists often use ruins as a theme, symbolizing decay and the passage of time, prompting viewers to contemplate impermanence.
  • Works like 'The Ruin' poem from the Anglo-Saxon period reflect on the transience of human achievements, focusing on what remains.

Origin of 'ruin'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'ruin' comes from the Latin 'ruina,' which means 'to fall or tumble down.'
  • In Middle English, 'ruin' referred to the collapse of a building, which shows how the idea of crumbling has been around for centuries.

The word 'ruin' originates from the Latin 'ruina', meaning 'a collapse or downfall'. The concept of ruin has been an integral part of human history, with civilizations rising and falling, leaving behind traces of their former glory in the form of ruins. Ruins have often been romanticized in literature and art, symbolizing the impermanence of human achievements.

See also: ruination, ruined, ruiner, ruining, ruinous, ruins.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,246 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.