ruin

B1
Pronunciation
/ˈɹuː.ɪn/
Noun
6 definition(s)
1 Definition

(sometimes in the plural) The remains of a destroyed or dilapidated construction, such as a house or castle.

2 Definition

The state of being a ruin, destroyed or decayed.

Example Sentences
  • The monastery has fallen into ruin.
3 Definition

Something that leads to serious trouble or destruction.

Example Sentences
  • Gambling has been the ruin of many.
4 Definition

A fall or tumble.

5 Definition

A change that destroys or defeats something; destruction; overthrow.

Example Sentences
  • the ruin of a ship or an army;  the ruin of a constitution or a government;  the ruin of health or hopes
6 Definition

Complete financial loss; bankruptcy.

Verb
8 definition(s)
1 Definition

To cause the fiscal ruin of.

Example Sentences
  • With all these purchases, you surely mean to ruin us!
2 Definition

To destroy or make something no longer usable.

Example Sentences
  • He ruined his new white slacks by accidentally spilling oil on them.
3 Definition

To cause severe financial loss to; to bankrupt or drive out of business.

Example Sentences
  • The crooked stockbroker's fraudulent scheme ruined dozens of victims; some investors lost their life savings and even their houses.
4 Definition

To upset or overturn the plans or progress of, or to have a disastrous effect on something.

Example Sentences
  • My car breaking down just as I was on the road ruined my vacation.
5 Definition

To make something less enjoyable or likeable.

Example Sentences
  • I used to love that song, but being assaulted when that song was playing ruined the song for me.
6 Definition

To reveal the ending of (a story); to spoil.

7 Definition

To fall into a state of decay.

8 Definition

To seduce or debauch, and thus harm the social standing of.

Example Sentences
  • The young libertine was notorious for ruining local girls.