This phrase often describes animals or insects eating something quickly and completely. The picnic was devoured by ants within minutes.
Pro Tip 2/3
Intensity
Use to emphasize the thoroughness and speed of eating. Indicates that nothing or very little was left. Within seconds, the cake was devoured by the hungry children.
Pro Tip 3/3
Destructive Force
When paired with 'flames', it conveys destruction by fire, like in a fire disaster. The ancient manuscripts were devoured by the flames.