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

On Tuesday, North Korea commissioned the 5,000-ton destroyer that Kim touted as a symbol of the country's growing naval and nuclear capabilities. — Arkansas Online, 27 June 2026

This would turn Social Security from a capital destroyer to a capital creator. — Steve Forbes, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026

On Tuesday, North Korea commissioned the 5,000-ton destroyer that Kim touted as a symbol of the country’s growing naval and nuclear capabilities. — ABC News, 25 June 2026

Seoul — North Korea on Tuesday commissioned its largest-ever warship, a 5,000-ton destroyer that military analysts say could give Pyongyang’s adversaries something more to think about in a time of crisis. — Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 24 June 2026

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