wipe out
/waɪp aʊt/To completely destroy or eliminate something, often with great force or thoroughness.
The hurricane wiped out the entire coastal town.
The hurricane completely destroyed the entire coastal town.
The new policy wiped out all the old regulations.
The new policy eliminated all the old regulations.
Often used in contexts where something is destroyed, removed, or eliminated completely.
To exhaust or defeat someone completely, often in a competition or contest.
The champion wiped out all his opponents in the tournament.
The champion defeated all his opponents in the tournament.
The long hike wiped me out.
The long hike exhausted me completely.
Can be used literally or figuratively to describe extreme exhaustion or defeat.
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💡Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'wipe out' can vary based on context. Pay attention to whether it is used literally (e.g., destroying a building) or figuratively (e.g., exhausting someone).
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While 'wipe out' is a useful phrase, overusing it can make your language sound repetitive. Vary your vocabulary with synonyms like 'destroy' or 'eliminate'.
📖Word Origin
The phrase 'wipe out' combines the verb 'wipe' (to clean or remove) and the preposition 'out' (completely or thoroughly). It has been used since the mid-19th century to describe complete destruction or elimination.
📝Usage Notes
The phrase is versatile and can be used in both literal and figurative contexts. It is common in informal speech and writing.