Cracked: meaning, definitions and examples

When something has small lines or fractures on the surface but is still mostly intact.

• The ceramic mug got cracked when it fell from the table
• The phone screen is cracked but it still works

When something has been harmed and is not in its original good condition but may still be usable to some degree.

• The package was damaged during shipping but the contents are fine
• The book's cover is damaged after getting wet

When something is completely in pieces or not functioning as it should.

• The remote control is broken and doesn't change channels anymore
• Her favorite vase got broken during the move

When something is divided into parts, often referring to something that was once whole.

• The board split in half after too much pressure was applied
• They had a split in their friendship after the argument

Used when something has partially broken, creating a line or lines on the surface without splitting entirely.

• She noticed the mirror was cracked
• The foundation of the house has cracked due to the earthquake

A general term for when something is separated into pieces by force. It can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

• Did you break the vase? She needs a break from work

Used when something breaks into many small pieces. Often used to describe glass or other fragile materials. It can also describe a state of extreme emotional upset.

• The window shattered into a thousand pieces
• Her confidence was shattered after the failure

Often used in medical contexts to describe a partial or complete break in a bone. It can also be used in a metaphorical sense.

• He has a hairline fracture in his arm
• The scandal caused a fracture in their friendship