v.tr. 1 pull or break down; demolish (destroyed the bridge). 2 end the existence of (the accident destroyed her confidence). 3 kill (esp. a sick or savage animal). 4 make useless; spoil utterly. 5 ruin financially, professionally, or in reputation. 6 defeat (destroyed the enemy).
[ ME f. OF destruire ult. f. L destruere (as DE-, struere struct- build) ]