Definition

To completely destroy or tear down a building or structure.

Example

The old factory was demolished to make way for a new park.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear they plan to demolish that old building downtown?

Yeah, it’s been vacant for years; it’s about time.

I wonder what they'll put in its place after they demolish it.

Hopefully something nice, like a park or a new café!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Demolish → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "moliri" (meaning to build or to construct). The word "demolish" means to take down or destroy a structure that has been built.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking down' ('de-') something that has been 'built' ('moliri') — that's why demolish means to destroy a building.

Visually Confused Words