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Ripper - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A ripper is a tool or machine used for cutting or tearing apart materials, such as soil or fabric. It can also refer to something excellent or outstanding in informal contexts.

ripper

/ˈrɪpər/ /ˈrɪpə/

Definition:

A tool or person that tears or cuts something forcefully, often used informally for something excellent.

Synonyms:

shredder, cutter, slasher, tearer

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

mender, fixer

Common Collocations:

ripper blade, ripper tool, serial ripper

Derivatives:

ripped, ripping

Usage Tips:

Use "ripper" informally to mean "excellent" in British slang (e.g., "That movie was a ripper!").

Common Phrases:

Jack the Ripper, a real ripper, gut-ripper

Etymology:

Derived from "rip," from Old English "rippan," meaning to tear or cut violently.

Examples:

  • 1. The new paper shredder is a real ripper!
  • 2. He used a ripper to tear open the package quickly.
  • 3. That concert last night was an absolute ripper!
  • 4. The farmer sharpened his soil ripper before plowing the field.

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