a person or thing that destroys or ruins something.
The storm was a great destroyer of crops.
Vandals are destroyers of community property.
✦ Late 16th century: from 'destroy' + '-er,' denoting the agent.
a small, fast warship used for protecting larger ships from submarines, aircraft, and other threats.
The destroyer sailed swiftly alongside the aircraft carrier.
Our fleet includes several modern destroyers.
✦ Late 19th century: shortening of 'torpedo-boat destroyer,' later understood as agent noun from 'destroy' + '-er.'
