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Thrashing - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Thrashing refers to violent or forceful movements, such as flailing limbs or waves crashing. It can also describe a computer's excessive activity when overloaded, slowing performance. The term implies chaotic or uncontrolled motion.

thrashing

/ˈθræʃɪŋ/ /ˈθræʃɪŋ/

Definition:

Beating or striking repeatedly, often violently; also, moving wildly or struggling.

Synonyms:

beating, flogging, whipping, pounding

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

caressing, soothing

Common Collocations:

thrashing machine, thrashing sound, thrashing about

Derivatives:

thrasher, thrashed

Usage Tips:

Use "thrashing" for violent physical actions or metaphorical struggles (e.g., "thrashing the water"). Avoid for gentle movements.

Common Phrases:

give someone a thrashing, thrash out an issue

Etymology:

From Old English *þrescan*, meaning to beat or strike forcefully; related to Dutch *dorsen* and German *dreschen*.

Examples:

  • 1. The waves were thrashing against the rocks all night.
  • 2. He received a severe thrashing for breaking the rules.
  • 3. The fish kept thrashing in the net until it escaped.
  • 4. She was thrashing around in her sleep during the nightmare.

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