destroy
verb (used with object)
to reduce (an object) to useless fragments, a useless form, or remains, as by rending, burning, or dissolving; injure beyond repair or renewal; demolish; ruin; annihilate.
destroying
-
present participleof destroy.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Haney renewed his argument that the hillside was not secured after the Jan. 1 fire and had burned a second time before federal investigators examined it, destroying potential evidence.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 4, 2026
Rio Tinto has previously faced criticism for destroying two sacred Aboriginal rock shelters in Pilbara which sat above tonnes of iron ore.
From BBC ● Nov. 3, 2026
The UN biodiversity summit enters a final day Friday with nations still far from reaching a deal to revive a faltering pledge to stop destroying nature.
From Barron's ● Oct. 30, 2026
Macrophages, the white blood cells responsible for engulfing and destroying harmful microorganisms, attempt to consume these particles.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 23, 2026
Blue Team’s commanders were also given a tool called Effects-Based Operations, which directed them to think beyond the conventional military method of targeting and destroying an adversary’s military assets.
From "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell
