Pounding: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe a repetitive and forceful striking, hitting, or feeling, like a heartbeat or rain. It can be used to describe strong emotions or physical sensations.

• My head was pounding after the loud concert.
• The rain was pounding on the roof all night.

Incorrect repetition of previous word.

Describes a heavy and loud sound, often from something large and solid hitting a surface, or a strong heartbeat. It can also imply heavy footsteps or movements.

• The car made a loud thumping noise as it hit the bump.
• He felt his heart thumping in his chest with fear.

Used to describe a rhythmic throbbing or regularly occurring sensation, often associated with light, sound, or biological rhythm like a heartbeat.

• The music was pulsing through the speakers.
• She could feel the blood pulsing in her veins.

Pounding is typically used to describe the action of hitting something repeatedly with force. This term can be used in both physical contexts, such as pounding meat to tenderize it, or metaphorically, such as describing a headache.

• He was pounding the dough to make it softer.
• She could feel her heart pounding in her chest after the run.

Crushing involves applying pressure to break something into smaller pieces or destroy its structure. It is used in contexts where the object is reduced to pieces or severely damaged.

• The machine is used for crushing rocks into gravel.
• News of the scandal was crushing for the company's reputation.

Grinding refers to the process of reducing something to small particles or powder by rubbing it between two surfaces. This term is often used for food preparation or describing continuous work.

• He spent the afternoon grinding coffee beans.
• She was grinding away at her studies, hoping to pass the exam.

Mashing is commonly used to describe the process of pressing or squashing food into a soft, pulpy consistency. It's particularly used in cooking, like making mashed potatoes.

• He spent the morning mashing boiled potatoes for dinner.
• The brewer began mashing the malt for the beer production.

This word is best used when describing a repetitive and heavy hitting motion, often associated with something making a continuous loud noise. It can also describe a strong sensation, like a heartbeat.

• The rain was pounding against the windows.
• His heart was pounding with excitement.

This word is versatile and can be used to describe rhythmic hitting motions, a routine pattern, or even defeating someone in a competition. Be cautious, though, as it can imply violence in certain contexts.

• He beat the drum in time with the music.
• She beat her opponent in the final game.
• The workers beat the metal into shape.

This word is appropriate for describing a single, sharp hit or blow. It can also be used in varied scenarios like sports, labor actions (like a workers' strike), or even something suddenly affecting or occurring.

• He took a strike at the baseball.
• The workers decided to go on strike.
• Lightning is likely to strike the tallest buildings.

Use this word when you want to describe hitting something repeatedly, especially with a tool. It can also metaphorically describe strongly emphasizing a point or action.

• He hammered the nails into the wood.
• The lawyer hammered away at the witness with tough questions.