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Wreck - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A wreck is the remains of something severely damaged or destroyed, such as a ship, vehicle, or building. It can also refer to a person in poor physical or mental condition.

wreck

/rɛk/ /rɛk/

Definition:

To destroy or severely damage something, or the remains of a destroyed object or vehicle.

Synonyms:

ruin, destroy, demolish, smash, shatter

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

repair, build

Common Collocations:

car wreck, train wreck, wreck a plan, wreck havoc

Derivatives:

wrecker, wreckage

Usage Tips:

Use "wreck" as a verb for destruction or as a noun for the damaged remains of something.

Common Phrases:

shipwreck, train wreck (metaphorical), emotional wreck

Etymology:

From Old English "wrecan" (to drive out) and Old Norse "rek" (shipwreck).

Examples:

  • 1. The storm could wreck the small boat if we don’t find shelter soon.
  • 2. After the accident, the car was a total wreck on the side of the road.
  • 3. Don’t let one bad grade wreck your confidence in math.
  • 4. The hurricane threatened to wreck entire neighborhoods along the coast.

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