# obliterated

/əˈbɫɪtɝˌeɪtɪd/ (US) · /əblˈɪtəɹˌeɪtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/obliterated
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

completely destroyed or wiped out so that nothing remains. In casual conversation, it can also mean being extremely drunk or tired.

For teachers: having been utterly destroyed, erased, or made invisible. Often functions as a participial adjective describing a state of total elimination or, in informal contexts, extreme intoxication.

## Examples

- The old building was obliterated by the explosion.
- Heavy snow obliterated the mountain trail, making it impossible for the hikers to find their way back.
- The ancient inscriptions had been so thoroughly obliterated by centuries of wind and sand that the archaeologists could only guess at the original text.

## Usage notes

- Often follows a linking verb like 'be', 'become', or 'look'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.