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
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was on hand for the arrival of the warships, which included the destroyer USS Bainbridge.
—
Ben Finley, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026
Today’s First Sea Lord must attempt to carry out the same duties with seven frigates, 10 submarines, six destroyers, two aircraft carriers.
—Michael Saunders, FOXNews.com, 16 May 2026
So, instead of having a destroyer or frigate-class asset on station, China could send dozens or hundreds of cheap, autonomous drones instead.
—Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 16 May 2026
Back then, Leonard wasn’t yet the silent destroyer who would eventually win two Finals MVPs.
—Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 13 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for destroyer
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Ben Finley, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026
Today’s First Sea Lord must attempt to carry out the same duties with seven frigates, 10 submarines, six destroyers, two aircraft carriers.
—Michael Saunders, FOXNews.com, 16 May 2026
So, instead of having a destroyer or frigate-class asset on station, China could send dozens or hundreds of cheap, autonomous drones instead.
—Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 16 May 2026
Back then, Leonard wasn’t yet the silent destroyer who would eventually win two Finals MVPs.
—Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 13 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for destroyer
Cite this Entry
“Destroyer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/destroyer. Accessed 20 May. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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