Also means
to overwhelm, crush (figuratively)
Usage Note
Anéantir is a strong verb meaning total destruction or devastation — stronger than détruire. The reflexive s'anéantir can mean 'to be shattered' emotionally. Its noun anéantissement means 'annihilation' or 'utter exhaustion'.
Examples
"La nouvelle l'a complètement anéanti."
Natural Translation
The news completely crushed him.

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