Ruin Definition & Meaning

ruin
noun
  1. an irrecoverable state of devastation and destruction; "you have brought ruin on this entire family"
  2. a ruined building; "they explored several Roman ruins"
  3. the process of becoming dilapidated
  4. an event that results in destruction
  5. failure that results in a loss of position or reputation
  6. destruction achieved by causing something to be wrecked or ruined
verb
  1. destroy completely; damage irreparably; "You have ruined my car by pouring sugar in the tank!"; "The tears ruined her make-up"
  2. destroy or cause to fail; "This behavior will ruin your chances of winning the election"
  3. reduce to bankruptcy; "My daughter's fancy wedding is going to break me!"; "The slump in the financial markets smashed him"
  4. reduce to ruins; "The country lay ruined after the war"
  5. deprive of virginity; "This dirty old man deflowered several young girls in the village"
  6. fall into ruin

"Ruin" in song lyrics

See how ruin is used in real songs:

  • "Cause I'm about to ruin"
    Apathy f/ Celph Titled — Stop What Ya Doin'
  • "West Coast, what? Killa Bees, rippin' and ruin"
    Black Knights f/ Sandman — Dirt Up
  • "Y'all know the beef is stewin, that Bumpy came to ruin"
    John Cena f/ Bumpy Knuckles (Freddie Foxxx), Tha Trademarc — Know the Rep

Usage tips for "ruin"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "ruin" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for ruin to find words that pair well.

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