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.
is destroying
-
present progressiveof destroy (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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.
“We refuse to participate in the economy that is ripping our neighbors from us, that is destroying families.”
From Salon ● Jan. 23, 2026
This month’s lackluster employment numbers spurred talk that artificial intelligence is destroying jobs.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 22, 2025
Global warming is destroying the natural habitat of animals including seals that live in the cold parts of the world.
From Barron's ● Oct. 10, 2025
The announcement comes as a UN Ocean Conference begins on Monday in France, and amid warnings from Sir David Attenborough that bottom trawling is destroying areas of the seabed and marine life.
From BBC ● Jun. 8, 2025
“But misfortunes are commonplace, Taylor, and relative. Look at the misfortune Nick Yew has endured this year. Or Ross Wilcox. How is destroying your classmate's property going to help your father?”
From "Black Swan Green" by David Mitchell
