Shelling: meaning, definitions and examples

Use to describe the act of continuous firing of explosive projectiles, typically done by artillery.

• The village suffered heavy shelling during the conflict
• After the shelling ended, the survivors emerged from their shelters

Refers to a sustained attack with bombs or artillery, usually intended to cause widespread destruction.

• The city endured a relentless bombardment during the war
• The constant bombardment of information overloads our brains

Often refers to a concentrated artillery bombardment over a wide area or also metaphorically for a continuous flow of questions or criticisms.

• The soldiers advanced under a heavy barrage of enemy fire
• She faced a barrage of questions during the press conference

Broad term for any aggressive action against an enemy or target, can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

• The army launched a surprise attack at dawn
• His comments were seen as an attack on her credibility

This word is often used when talking about removing the outer covering of certain types of food, like nuts and peas. It implies that a hard shell is being taken off.

• She spent the afternoon shelling peanuts for the party

This term is used broadly for removing the skin or outer layer from fruits and vegetables. It is generally associated with soft, edible outer layers.

• He stood by the sink, peeling potatoes for dinner

The word 'husking' is specifically used for removing the husk or outer covering of grains, such as corn. Husking is most commonly associated with corn.

• Every summer, we help our grandparents husking corn

This is a more general term that can be used in various situations to refer to taking something away. It doesn't specify what type of covering or layer is being taken off.

• She is skilled at removing stains from clothes

Used when talking about the activity of collecting seashells on a beach. This word is more general and can include both the act of collection and the condition of the shells after being broken.

• We spent the afternoon shelling along the coastline.
• Shelling is a relaxing hobby for many beachgoers.

The individual shells found on the beach. This term specifically refers to the objects themselves, not the activity of collecting them.

• Look at all these beautiful seashells I found!
• The children played with the seashells they collected.

Describes an assortment of collected seashells, often displayed or stored together. This term is used when talking about the gathered items as a whole.

• His shell collection is amazing and contains shells from beaches all around the world.
• She proudly showed off her shell collection to her friends.

Refers to the search for valuables or interesting items (including seashells) along the beach. It implies a broader exploration beyond just shells.

• Beachcombing can yield surprising finds, from shells to driftwood.
• Every morning, Jane goes beachcombing to see what the tide has brought in.