destroyer

noun

de·​stroy·​er di-ˈstrȯi(-ə)r 

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

Such losses would represent a significant proportion of the 11 carriers and approximately 80 cruisers and destroyers currently in service around the world. —Andrew S. Lim, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025

Japan lost four aircraft carriers, one cruiser, and hundreds of aircraft, while the U.S. lost one carrier, one destroyer and 144 aircraft during the battle. —Lucia I Suarez Sang, CBS News, 21 Apr. 2025

San Diego County sailors have also been patrolling the border area by sea, with USS Stockdale, a destroyer, taking up a position. —Caleb Lunetta, Mercury News, 18 Apr. 2025

The third ship, a destroyer, on Sunday provided an escort to a Chinese sailboat in the Gulf of Aden, the Chinese navy said. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing destroyer

• destroyer escort
• self-destroyer
• tank destroyer

Rhymes for destroyer

• employer
• foyer
• oyer
• multiemployer

Kids Definition

destroyer

noun

de·​stroy·​er di-ˈstrȯi(-ə)r 

1

: one that destroys

2

: a small fast warship armed with guns, depth charges, torpedoes, and often guided missiles