ENGLISH
REFERENCE

ruined

adj.
US //ˈɹuənd// UK //ɹˈuːɪnd// ru·ined
  1. 1 destroyed or damaged (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    broken, destroyed, or badly damaged so that it cannot be used.

    reduced to a state of decay, collapse, or worthlessness through damage or neglect.

    Example

    The rain ruined my new shoes while I was walking home.

    Example

    The historic district was left ruined after the floodwaters receded, leaving many residents to wonder if the original architecture could ever be restored.
  2. 2 dilapidated buildings (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    describes old buildings that have fallen down or are in very bad condition.

    existing in a state of physical ruin or structural decay, typically referring to ancient or abandoned architecture.

    Example

    We visited the ruined castle on the hill during our holiday.

    Example

    The landscape was dotted with ruined abbeys, their roofless shells serving as a haunting reminder of the region's medieval history.
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  1. 3 bankrupt (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    having lost all your money or your good reputation.

    socially, financially, or morally destroyed; often used to describe total insolvency.

    Example

    The scandal left the businessman ruined and without any friends.

    Example

    After the stock market crash, many investors found themselves ruined, having lost their entire life savings in a single afternoon of trading.
  2. 4 very drunk or high (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Slang Informal

    feeling very sick or unable to think because of too much alcohol or drugs.

    incapacitated or severely impaired by the effects of drugs or alcohol.

    Example

    He was completely ruined after the party and couldn't even stand up.

    Example

    The group arrived at the diner looking absolutely ruined, clearly suffering the consequences of their late-night celebrations.

    Usage

    Usually follows a linking verb like 'be' or 'get'.

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