destroyer

noun

de·​stroy·​er di-ˈstrȯi(-ə)r How to pronounce destroyer (audio)
dē-
Synonyms of destroyernext
1
: one that destroys
2
: a small fast warship used especially to support larger vessels and usually armed with guns, depth charges, torpedoes, and often guided missiles

Examples of destroyer in a Sentence

The pamphlet describes alcohol as a destroyer of families.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The new plan is for the CCVs to take on the role of the destroyers. — David Szondy july 01, New Atlas, 1 July 2026 Kim was celebrating the deployment of the new multipurpose destroyer at the port of Nampho. — Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026 This would turn Social Security from a capital destroyer to a capital creator. — Steve Forbes, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 Kim Jong Un during a commissioning ceremony for the destroyer Choe Hyon at the port in Nampho on Tuesday. — Stella Kim, NBC news, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for destroyer

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of destroyer was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing destroyer

Rhymes for destroyer

See All Rhymes for destroyer

Browse Nearby Words

destroyable
destroyer
destroyer escort
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Destroyer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/destroyer. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

destroyer

noun
de·​stroy·​er di-ˈstrȯi(-ə)r How to pronounce destroyer (audio)
1
: one that destroys
2
: a small fast warship armed with guns, depth charges, torpedoes, and often guided missiles
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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