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Wrack: meaning, definitions and examples

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wrack

 

[ræk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

destruction, ruin

Wrack refers to destruction or ruin, especially when it occurs as a result of external forces. It can also denote the remains or wreckage of something that has been damaged or broken.

Synonyms

debris, devastation, ruin, wreckage.

Examples of usage

  • The ship was lost to the wrack of the storm.
  • They searched the beach for wrack left by the recent hurricane.
  • The battle left much wrack behind on the once-peaceful landscape.
Context #2 | Verb

destroy, ruin

To wrack means to cause severe damage or destruction to something. It often suggests a violent or forceful action that puts something in a state of disrepair.

Synonyms

destroy, devastate, ravage, wreck.

Examples of usage

  • The financial crisis wracked the economy.
  • Fear wracked her mind as she awaited the results.
  • Tension wracked the atmosphere before the announcement.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'wrack' dates back to the Old English 'wracian,' meaning to wreck or destroy.
  • It is often linked to the word 'wreck,' sharing a similar root meaning related to destruction.
  • Historically, 'wrack' was also used to describe floating seaweed, showing a connection to both nature and ruin.

Literature

  • The term 'wrack' appears in various literary works, emphasizing themes of disaster and loss.
  • Shakespeare used 'wrack' in his plays to convey turmoil, demonstrating its connection to chaos and despair.
  • Writers often use 'wrack' metaphorically to depict emotional pain or relationship breakdowns.

Science

  • In ecology, 'wrack' can refer to the accumulation of decaying organic material along shorelines, affecting coastal habitats.
  • Studies on marine ecosystems indicate that wrack zones provide important habitats for various marine species.
  • Research indicates that the removal of wrack from beaches can lead to significant ecological imbalances.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'wrack your brain' is commonly used in pop culture to describe intense thought or mental struggle.
  • Various movies and songs employ the concept of 'wrack' to illustrate emotional turmoil or catastrophic situations.
  • Popular video games often feature locations named after 'wrack,' suggesting a place of battle or destruction.

Psychology

  • 'Wracking' emotions like stress or anxiety can lead to negative mental health outcomes, emphasizing the need for coping strategies.
  • Psychological theories suggest that individuals who feel emotionally 'wracked' may experience confusion and helplessness.
  • Understanding the impact of 'wrack' on mental states can help in developing therapeutic approaches to aid recovery.

Translations

Translations of the word "wrack" in other languages:

🇵🇹 destruição

🇮🇳 नाश

🇩🇪 Wrack

🇮🇩 kehancuran

🇺🇦 знищення

🇵🇱 wrak

🇯🇵 難破

🇫🇷 épave

🇪🇸 naufragio

🇹🇷 enkaza

🇰🇷 난파

🇸🇦 تحطم

🇨🇿 zbytkový

🇸🇰 vrak

🇨🇳 残骸

🇸🇮 razbitina

🇮🇸 rúst

🇰🇿 жойқын

🇬🇪 ანგარიშება

🇦🇿 dağıntı

🇲🇽 naufragio

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,594 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.