Definition

Having the quality of destroying or removing completely; causing something to be forgotten or erased.

Example

The obliterative effects of the storm left the town in ruins.

Conversation

Have you read that new book about the war?

Not yet, but I heard it has some really obliterative scenes.

Yeah, it really makes you feel the impact of the events.

I can imagine! Those kinds of moments stick with you.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Obliterative → It is formed from "ob-" (meaning against or over) and "literare" (from Latin, meaning to erase or to write). The word "obliterative" refers to the act of erasing or removing something completely, as if writing over it.

Memory Tip

Think of 'writing over' ('literare') something 'against' ('ob-') — that's why obliterative means to erase or remove completely.

Visually Confused Words