To rapidly destroy, engulf, or lay waste.
To take in avidly with the intellect or with one's gaze.
To absorb or engross the mind fully, especially in a destructive manner.
To eat quickly, greedily, hungrily, or ravenously.
To keep up; to preserve; to uphold (a state, condition etc.).
To declare or affirm (a clause) to be true; to assert.