Sabotage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sabotage

[ˈsæb.ə.tɑːʒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

act of deliberately destroying or damaging something

Sabotage is the act of deliberately destroying or damaging something, especially for political or military advantage. It can involve acts such as cutting wires, setting fires, or spreading false information.

Synonyms

destruction, sabotaging.

Examples of usage

  • The enemy agents planned to sabotage the factory by planting explosives.
  • The workers were suspected of sabotage when the machinery suddenly broke down.
Context #2 | Verb

to deliberately destroy or damage something

To sabotage means to deliberately destroy or damage something, often for a specific purpose such as disrupting operations or causing harm. It can involve actions like tampering with equipment, interfering with processes, or undermining efforts.

Synonyms

sabotaging, undermine.

Examples of usage

  • The disgruntled employee tried to sabotage the project by deleting important files.
  • The hackers attempted to sabotage the company's website by introducing malware.

Translations

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Origin of 'sabotage'

The word 'sabotage' has its origins in the French word 'saboter', which means to clatter noisily with wooden shoes. During the Industrial Revolution, French workers would throw their wooden shoes called 'sabots' into the machinery to disrupt production and protest against harsh working conditions. This practice gave rise to the term 'sabotage' as a form of intentional disruption or damage.


See also: saboteur, saboteuse.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,926, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.