destroy in WordNet English dictionary

1. defeat soundly
   "The home team demolished the visitors"
   demolish  destroy 
   
2. destroy completely; damage irreparably
   "You have ruined my car by pouring sugar in the tank!"; "The tears ruined her make-up"
   destroy  ruin 
   
3. put (an animal) to death
   "The customs agents destroyed the dog that was found to be rabid"; "the sick cat had to be put down"
   destroy  put down 
   
4. do away with, cause the destruction or undoing of
   "The fire destroyed the house"
   destroy  destruct