Pulverize: meaning, definitions and examples

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pulverize

[ˈpʌlvəraɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in chemistry

To reduce to fine particles or dust by pounding or grinding.

Synonyms

crush, grind, pound.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pulverize	Similar to the first instance of 'pulverize' but can also imply complete and thorough destruction in more dramatic or emphatic contexts. The new technology can pulverize waste materials into a usable form. They threatened to pulverize the opposition with their new strategy.
crush	Commonly used in everyday speech to describe forcefully compressing something until it breaks or deforms. It can also be used metaphorically about defeating someone or something. She used a stone to crush the garlic for the recipe. Their team was crushed by the competition in the final match.
grind	Typically used in culinary or mechanical contexts to describe breaking something into small pieces or a powder, often through friction. He took the coffee beans and ground them to make a fresh cup of coffee. The gears in the old machine grind together noisily.
pound	Used to describe hitting something repeatedly with great force, often in contexts requiring manual effort. Can also be used metaphorically to describe intense feelings or actions. She used a hammer to pound the nails into the wall. His heart was pounding with excitement as he approached the stage.

Examples of usage

The solid was pulverized to a fine powder.
She pulverized the rock into small fragments.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in warfare

To completely destroy or defeat something.

Synonyms

annihilate, demolish, destroy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pulverize	Best used when referring to grinding or crushing something into fine particles, often used in a scientific, technical, or hyperbolic culinary context. The chef pulverized the spices to enhance the flavor of the dish. The machine can pulverize rocks into tiny bits.
annihilate	Ideal for describing complete and utter destruction, especially in contexts involving conflicts, battles, or competitions. Often has a dramatic or intense connotation. The army was able to annihilate the enemy forces. Their team was annihilated in the final match, losing with a score of 10-0.
destroy	A versatile term used for a wide range of contexts from physical destruction to ruining plans, emotions, or status. It is the most general term with a wide application, but can also carry a heavy emotional or negative connotation. The hurricane destroyed many homes along the coast. She was devastated when she realized her mistake could destroy her career.
demolish	Generally used in the context of physically knocking down buildings or structures, but can also figuratively describe defeating an idea, argument, or plan. Often implies a systematic or planned method of destruction. The old building was demolished to make way for a new shopping mall. The lawyer demolished the opposing counsel's argument.

Examples of usage

The army pulverized the enemy's defenses.
The team pulverized their opponents in the game.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Originates from the Latin word 'pulverizare,' meaning 'to crush to dust.'
In Latin, 'pulvis' means 'dust,' which relates directly to the action of turning something into fine particles.
The term evolved through Old French before entering the English language in the late 15th century.

Science

Pulverization is important in chemistry for speeding up reactions by increasing surface area.
In pharmaceuticals, it’s used to create fine powders that improve the absorption of medicines.
In geology, pulverization can occur naturally through weathering processes, breaking down rocks into smaller grains.

Culinary

In cooking, pulverizing ingredients like spices can enhance flavors due to increased surface area.
Pulverized ingredients such as sugar or nuts are often used in baking to create specific textures in desserts.
Pulverized ice is a popular addition in cocktails, providing texture and keeping drinks cold longer.

Technology

Modern manufacturing processes often involve pulverization to create materials like cement or powdered metals.
3D printing technology sometimes uses pulverized materials to create layers in the printing process.
In food processing, machines are designed specifically to pulverize ingredients for consistent texture and flavor.

Artistry

Some artists use pulverized pigments for paints, allowing for unique colors and textures in their works.
In photography, pulverization techniques can be applied in darkrooms for creative effects.
Certain contemporary artists incorporate powdered substances into sculptures, playing with textures and forms.

Translations

Translations of the word "pulverize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pulverizar

🇮🇳 चूर्ण करना

🇩🇪 pulverisieren

🇮🇩 menghancurkan

🇺🇦 порошити

🇵🇱 rozdrabniać

🇯🇵 粉砕する (ふんさいする)

🇫🇷 pulvériser

🇪🇸 pulverizar

🇹🇷 toz haline getirmek

🇰🇷 분쇄하다

🇸🇦 سحق

🇨🇿 rozdrtit

🇸🇰 rozdrviť

🇨🇳 粉碎 (fěnsuì)

🇸🇮 zdrobiti

🇮🇸 duftkenna

🇰🇿 ұнтақтау

🇬🇪 გაფხვიერება

🇦🇿 toz halına gətirmək

🇲🇽 pulverizar

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,145 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
33142 dawdling
33143 asocial
33144 predating
33145 pulverize
33146 unbeaten
33147 underclothes
33148 cohabited
...