verb

derribar

demolish · knock down

Hacer que algo o alguien caiga al suelo, quitando su posición original.

Definition & meaning

The verb derribar primarily refers to the action of knocking something down, causing it to fall, or destroying a structure. It is used in several contexts:

Physical destruction or demolition: To demolish a building, a wall, or a monument. It implies bringing a structure down to the ground.
Causing someone or something to fall: To knock a person or an animal down to the ground, often during a physical confrontation or in sports.
To fell: In forestry, it refers to cutting down a tree.
Figurative sense: To cause the downfall of a government, a political system, or an institution (similar to "to topple").

Grammar & Word origin

Derribar is a regular first-conjugation verb ending in -ar.

The word is derived from the prefix de- (implying downward movement or negation) and the noun ribo (or riba), which refers to a bank, a slope, or an edge. Etymologically, it suggests bringing something down from a bank or slope to the ground level.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms

Demoler : Specifically used for buildings or structures.
Tumbar : Commonly used for knocking people, animals, or objects down.
Abatir : Used for felling trees or shooting down aircraft/targets.
Derrocar : Specifically used for the overthrowing of governments or leaders.
Echar abajo : A common phrasal construction for destroying or bringing something down.