destroyer

noun

de·​stroy·​er di-ˈstrȯi(-ə)r How to pronounce destroyer (audio)
dē-
1
: one that destroys
2
: a small fast warship used especially to support larger vessels and usually armed with guns, depth charges, torpedoes, and often guided missiles

Examples of destroyer in a Sentence

The pamphlet describes alcohol as a destroyer of families.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Trump is stacking destroyers in some jobs that don't need Senate confirmation. Axios, 16 Dec. 2024 The navy would also need four submarines (including delaying one LA class retirement), three new destroyers, and three frigates to improve its flexibility for positioning maritime combat power, as well as six more logistics and support ships to keep the fleet at sea longer. Elaine McCusker, Foreign Affairs, 13 Dec. 2024 The Curtiss’ 5-inch guns fired on it, and a passing destroyer took it out with depth charges. Thomas Curwen, Los Angeles Times, 7 Dec. 2024 The final resting place of the USS Edsall, a Clemson-class destroyer, was discovered late last year at the bottom of the Indian Ocean, according to the U.S. Navy and Royal Australian Navy. Stephen Sorace, Fox News, 12 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for destroyer 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of destroyer was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near destroyer

Cite this Entry

“Destroyer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/destroyer. Accessed 3 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

destroyer

noun
de·​stroy·​er di-ˈstrȯi(-ə)r How to pronounce destroyer (audio)
1
: one that destroys
2
: a small fast warship armed with guns, depth charges, torpedoes, and often guided missiles
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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