Definition

Describing something that has been destroyed or severely damaged, often to the point of being unusable or unrecognizable.

Example

The once beautiful building now stands as a ruinate, a shadow of its former glory.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you see that old building downtown?

Yeah, it looks so ruinate and abandoned now.

I remember when it used to be so vibrant.

It's sad to see such a historic place become ruinate.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ruinate → It is formed from "ruina" (meaning a fall or collapse) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to cause or make). The word "ruinate" means to cause to fall into ruin or to destroy.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'fall' or 'collapse' ('ruina') that leads to destruction, which is what 'ruinate' means.

Visually Confused Words