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Shreds: meaning, definitions and examples

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shreds

 

[ʃrɛdz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in music

Small pieces or strips of something, especially cloth or paper.

Synonyms

bits, fragments, pieces.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shreds

Best used when referring to something that has been torn or cut into thin strips or very small pieces, often implying destruction or significant breaking apart.

  • The letter was torn into shreds
  • The old flag was in shreds after the storm
fragments

This term is used to describe small parts that have broken off from something larger, often used in more formal or technical contexts. It implies a piece that is part of a whole but now separated.

  • Archaeologists discovered fragments of ancient pottery
  • Her memories were just fragments of the past
pieces

A general term for parts of a whole, can be small or large, used in both formal and informal contexts. The word doesn't specify how the pieces were created.

  • He carefully put together the pieces of the puzzle
  • There were several pieces of broken furniture in the room
bits

Used to describe small pieces of something, often when those pieces are quite tiny. Can be used in casual or technical contexts.

  • She found bits of glass on the floor
  • He added some bits of chocolate to the cookie dough

Examples of usage

  • He played the guitar so fast that he shredded the strings.
  • The drummer's intense solo ended with him throwing shreds of his drumsticks into the crowd.
Context #2 | Verb

informal

Tear or cut something into small pieces.

Synonyms

cut up, rip up, tear up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shreds

Use 'shreds' when you want to describe something that has been torn into thin strips or pieces, often as a result of force or destruction.

  • The letter was left in shreds after the dog got a hold of it
  • His clothes were reduced to shreds after the accident
tear up

Similar to 'rip up', 'tear up' is used for tearing something into pieces with hands. It can also imply an emotional response.

  • Feeling overwhelmed, she tore up the letter
  • He tore up the photo after their breakup
cut up

When you want to describe slicing something into smaller pieces usually with a knife or scissors, 'cut up' is appropriate. This is often used in a more neutral or casual context.

  • She cut up the vegetables for the salad
  • The teacher asked the students to cut up the paper into small squares
rip up

Use 'rip up' if you want to convey tearing something forcefully, usually with hands. It can suggest a more active or violent action.

  • He angrily ripped up the contract
  • She ripped up the old clothes before throwing them away

Examples of usage

  • She shredded the documents before the police could find them.
  • The cat shredded the curtains with its claws.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'shred' originates from the Old English 'screade' which meant a piece or fragment.
  • It has roots in the Middle Dutch word 'schrede', referring to small bits of cloth.
  • The transformation into its modern form reflects language evolution while retaining the idea of something torn.

Culinary Uses

  • In cooking, shredded meat is popular for tacos and sandwiches, as it absorbs flavors easily.
  • Shredded cheese melts better than whole pieces, making it a favorite for pizzas and casseroles.
  • Vegetables like carrots and zucchini can be shredded to create lighter, healthier meals or to add texture.

Cultural References

  • In art, shredded paper is often used in collage and crafts, showcasing creativity through repurposing waste.
  • The act of shredding documents is associated with confidentiality, especially in corporate settings.
  • Shredders are major figures in music, especially in genres like metal, where guitarists are known for their rapid, intricate playing.

Psychology

  • Shredding old memories or materials can symbolize letting go of the past and moving forward.
  • The physical act of tearing or shredding can serve as a stress reliever for some individuals.
  • Organizing and shredding might help reduce anxiety by clearing clutter and creating a sense of order.

Sports

  • In extreme sports like snowboarding or skiing, 'shredding the gnar' refers to expertly navigating downhill terrain.
  • The term 'shred' has become synonymous with someone who excels in a specific sport, showcasing skill and agility.
  • Many athletes use 'shred' to describe their training progress, especially in the context of gaining or losing weight.

Translations

Translations of the word "shreds" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pedaços

🇮🇳 कतरनें

🇩🇪 Schnipsel

🇮🇩 sobekan

🇺🇦 шматочки

🇵🇱 strzępy

🇯🇵 断片

🇫🇷 lambeaux

🇪🇸 trozos

🇹🇷 parçalar

🇰🇷 조각

🇸🇦 شرائح

🇨🇿 kousky

🇸🇰 kúsky

🇨🇳 碎片

🇸🇮 koščki

🇮🇸 bútar

🇰🇿 кесектер

🇬🇪 ნამცეცები

🇦🇿 parçalar

🇲🇽 pedazos

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,407, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.