Razes

To completely destroy or demolish something, often a building or structure, leaving it level with the ground. It implies a violent and thorough destruction, removing all traces of the object. The act of razing suggests a deliberate action intended to eliminate something entirely, often for strategic, punitive, or developmental purposes. Historically, razing was commonly used in warfare to eliminate enemy fortifications or to punish defeated populations. In modern contexts, razing can be associated with urban renewal projects, clearing land for new construction, or destroying obsolete infrastructure.

Razes meaning with examples

• The occupying army, in a display of ruthless power, vowed to raze the entire village to the ground after a perceived act of rebellion, leaving its inhabitants displaced and their homes destroyed. The once vibrant community was reduced to ashes, a stark reminder of the conflict's brutality.
• As part of the city's ambitious urban renewal plan, they decided to raze the outdated and structurally unsound housing projects to make way for modern, more sustainable apartment complexes that catered to the changing needs of the neighborhood.
• Due to the impending threat of a volcanic eruption, authorities made the difficult decision to raze the coastal town. Evacuation efforts were prioritized to save lives, understanding the inevitable destruction that would follow from nature’s raw power.
• After the devastating fire, insurance companies determined that it was economically unfeasible to repair the burned-out shopping mall, and decided to raze the remaining structure. New development could then be planned more effectively.
• To make room for the construction of a new superhighway, the city council voted to raze a historical section of the city, resulting in outcry from preservationists who wanted to keep the historic buildings.