Ruination Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ruination

[ˌro͞oəˈnāSHən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

destruction

The act of ruining or the state of being ruined. Ruination can refer to the physical destruction of something, such as a building or a city, or the complete failure or collapse of something, like a business or a relationship.

Synonyms

collapse, destruction, devastation.

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Word Description / Examples
ruination

This is a repeat and should not be included again in the final list.

destruction

Used to refer to complete annihilation or obliteration, especially involving physical damage. This word often carries a strong and vivid sense of violence or force.

  • The hurricane caused widespread destruction.
  • The fires led to the destruction of countless homes.
devastation

Implies severe and overwhelming damage or ruin, often accompanied by a sense of emotional or physical impact. It is often used to describe natural disasters or war zones.

  • The earthquake brought devastation to the city.
  • She felt a deep sense of devastation after hearing the news.
collapse

Typically used to describe a sudden and complete failure or breakdown, often in structural, economic, or organizational contexts.

  • The bridge's collapse was a tragic event.
  • The collapse of the stock market caused widespread panic.

Examples of usage

  • The ruination of the ancient temple was a tragic loss for the community.
  • The ruination of their friendship came as a shock to everyone.

Translations

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

Origin of 'ruination'

The word 'ruination' has its origins in the Latin word 'ruinatio', meaning the action of falling down or the state of being fallen. It has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe the process or result of something being destroyed or ruined. The concept of ruination has been a common theme in literature and art, often symbolizing the transient nature of life and the inevitability of decay.


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

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,642 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.