Annihilated is a word that is often used to describe something that has been completely destroyed or wiped out. It is a term that is used in a variety of contexts, from describing the aftermath of a natural disaster to the end of a relationship. In this article, we will explore the various definitions and meanings of the word annihilated, as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
The word annihilated is derived from the Latin word “annihilare,” which means to reduce to nothing. The most common definition of annihilated is to completely destroy or obliterate something. It can also refer to the complete defeat or overwhelming of an opponent or enemy. In some contexts, it can also mean to nullify or render something ineffective.
Origin
As mentioned earlier, the word annihilated is derived from the Latin word “annihilare.” The word was first used in English in the mid-16th century and has been in use ever since. The word has its roots in the idea of reducing something to nothing, which is a concept that has been explored in various philosophical and religious traditions throughout history.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, annihilated means to destroy completely, or to reduce to nothing. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as to destroy or obliterate something completely. The Cambridge English Dictionary defines it as to completely destroy something or someone, or to defeat someone completely.
Associations
Annihilated is often associated with destruction, devastation, and loss. It is a word that is used to describe the aftermath of a disaster or a war. It can also be associated with the end of a relationship or the failure of a project.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of annihilated include destroyed, obliterated, wiped out, eradicated, decimated, and extirpated.
Antonyms
Antonyms of annihilated include preserved, protected, saved, conserved, and maintained.
The same root words
Some words that share the same root as annihilated include annihilation, annihilator, and annihilable.
Example Sentences
- The hurricane annihilated the small coastal town, leaving nothing but rubble and debris.
- The army was able to annihilate the enemy forces in a single decisive battle.
- The project was a complete failure, and the company was forced to write off millions of dollars in losses.
- The breakup of their relationship left him feeling completely annihilated and hopeless.
- The virus was able to completely annihilate the population of the small island nation.