obliterate

[uh-blit-uh-reyt]

verb (used with object)

obliterated, obliterating 

1. to remove or destroy all traces of; do away with; destroy completely.

2. to blot out or render undecipherable (writing, marks, etc.); efface.

   Synonyms: expunge

obliterate

/ əˈblɪtəˌreɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to destroy every trace of; wipe out completely

Other Word Forms

• obliterable adjective
• obliterator noun
• obliterative adjective
• obliteration noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of obliterate¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; from Latin oblitterātus “effaced,” past participle of oblitterāre “to efface, cause to be forgotten,” equivalent to ob- ob- + litter(a) letter ¹ + -āre, infinitive verb suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of obliterate¹

C16: from Latin oblitterāre to erase, from ob- out + littera letter

Synonym Study

See cancel.

Example Sentences

Loyalty is rewarded, dissent is punished and the line between reporter and political operative is obliterated.

From Salon

Mansions with picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean were obliterated into charred slabs of stucco, broken concrete and dust.

From Los Angeles Times

After almost two years of war, triggered by the Hamas attacks of October 2023, much of the territory has been obliterated.

From BBC

“We’ve heard the expression eyes are the windows to the soul,” he said, “and if your eyes are destroyed, there is that fear of being obliterated.”

From Salon

Orange County exalts the suburb, something that L.A. has by choice and chance obliterated.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• annihilate 
• black out 
• eliminate 
• eradicate 
• erase 
• expunge 
• exterminate 
• knock out 
• obscure 
• ravage 
• smash 
• wash out 
• wipe out