Definition

To completely destroy or remove something so that nothing remains.

Example

The flood obliterated the small town, leaving only ruins behind.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the storm that could obliterate the coastal towns?

Yeah, it sounds really intense and scary.

I hope it doesn't actually obliterate anything important.

Me too! Those towns have such rich history and culture.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Obliterate → It is formed from "ob-" (meaning against) and "literare" (from "littera", meaning letter). The word originally described the act of erasing letters or writing, hence to completely destroy or wipe out.

Memory Tip

Think of 'against' ('ob-') and 'letters' ('literare') to remember that obliterate means to completely erase or destroy something.

Visually Confused Words