Destroy/dɪˈstrɔɪ/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Physical Impact Used when physical damage is so severe that restoration is impossible. The earthquake destroyed the bridge completely. Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Weight Carries a strong emotional tone, often suggesting sadness or loss. Seeing her childhood home destroyed was heart-wrenching. Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use Can be used metaphorically to describe ruining something non-physical, like a plan. His careless mistake destroyed our chances of winning.