ruin

//ˈruːɪn//
B2Frequency Level 8Neutral
Visual representation of ruin

Noun

ruinSingular
ruinsPlural
1

The physical destruction or collapse of a building or structure.

The earthquake caused the ruin of many old buildings.

2

The remains of a building or structure that has been destroyed or decayed.

We explored the ancient ruins of the castle.

3

A state of complete destruction, collapse, or disintegration.

The old castle fell into ruin after years of neglect.

4

The cause of someone's downfall or loss of wealth, position, or hope.

Gambling was his ruin.

Verb

ruinedPast tense
ruinedPast participle
ruiningPresent participle
ruinsThird-person singular
1

To destroy or severely damage something.

The storm ruined the crops.

2

To cause someone to lose their wealth, position, or prospects.

The scandal ruined his political career.

3

To spoil or make something useless or worthless.

The rain ruined our picnic.