devastate

 
Pronunciation: /ˈdɛvəsteɪt/

verb

[with object]
  • 1destroy or ruin: the city was devastated by a huge earthquake
  • 2cause (someone) severe and overwhelming shock or grief: she was devastated by the loss of Damian

Derivatives

devastator

noun

Origin:

mid 17th century: from Latin devastat- 'laid waste', from the verb devastare, from de- 'thoroughly' + vastare 'lay waste'