3. To put an end to the existence, prosperity, or beauty of; to kill.

If him by force he can destroy, or, worse,

By some false guile pervert.

Milton.

Syn. -- To demolish; lay waste; consume; raze; dismantle; ruin; throw down; overthrow; subvert; desolate; devastate; deface; extirpate; extinguish; kill; slay. See Demolish.