Langimage
English

ruins

|ru-ins|

B2

/ˈruːɪnz/

(ruin)

destruction

Base FormPluralPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleAdjective
ruinruinsruinersruinsruinedruinedruiningruined
Etymology
Etymology Information

'ruin' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'ruine,' where 'ruina' meant 'a collapse or fall.'

Historical Evolution

'ruine' transformed into the Middle English word 'ruyne,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ruin.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a collapse or fall,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'remains of a destroyed structure.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the remains of a building, city, etc., that has been destroyed or is in disrepair.

The ancient ruins of the city attract many tourists.

Synonyms

Noun 2

the state of being physically destroyed or decayed.

The castle fell into ruins after the war.

Synonyms

Noun 3

the state of being financially or morally destroyed.

The scandal led to his financial ruin.

Synonyms

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40