Wreck Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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wreck
[rek ]
Definitions
shipwreck
A wreck is the remains of something that has been badly damaged or destroyed.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| wreck |
This is commonly used to describe the state of something that has been severely damaged, typically in the context of vehicles like cars or ships. It can also refer to the physical state of a person who looks very tired or worn out.
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| ruins |
Typically used to describe the remnants of buildings, structures, or cities that have fallen into decay, often from historical or cultural significance.
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| debris |
This word is used to describe scattered pieces of waste or remains, often resulting from destruction or natural disasters.
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| remains |
Often used to refer to the parts left over after the greater part has been destroyed or removed, including human remains in archaeological or forensic contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The divers explored the wreck of the sunken ship.
- The old wreck of the car was rusting in the field.
- The storm left a wreck of debris along the coastline.
damage
To wreck something means to severely damage or destroy it.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| wreck |
Used commonly for physical damage, especially in accidents, and often with vehicles or buildings.
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| ruin |
Indicates severe, often irreparable damage, and can refer to both tangible and intangible things; frequently used in a lighter or more personal context.
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| destroy |
Suitable for complete and utter physical or metaphorical destruction, often used in a variety of serious and severe contexts.
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| devastate |
Implies causing extreme emotional or physical damage. Often used to describe the aftermath of natural disasters.
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Examples of usage
- The hurricane wrecked many houses in the neighborhood.
- He wrecked his car in the accident last night.
- Please don't wreck my plans for the weekend.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Numerous movies and shows have centered around 'wrecks,' often portraying dramatic car crashes or ship disasters, highlighting the theme of chaos and transformation.
- The band 'Wreckless Eric' drew inspiration from the word, signifying an untamed spirit and artistic freedom.
Science
- In marine biology, a 'wreck' can refer to a sunken ship that creates a new habitat for marine life, promoting biodiversity under the sea.
- Wrecking as a method in construction involves demolishing buildings intentionally for safety or redevelopment, emphasizing planned destruction.
Literature
- In classic literature, a shipwreck often serves as a metaphor for turmoil and personal loss, as seen in works like 'The Tempest' by Shakespeare.
- The term 'wreck' can also refer to people’s emotional states, often depicted in poetry as being 'wrecked' by love or loss.
Psychology
- Experiencing a wreck, whether physical or emotional, can lead to PTSD, influencing how individuals process trauma and recovery.
- In therapy, metaphors of 'wreckage' are sometimes used to help individuals express feelings of being broken or damaged.
Origin of 'wreck'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'wreck' comes from the Old Norse word 'rek,' meaning 'to drive' or 'to discard,' reflecting its history of destruction.
- It was first used in English around the 14th century, originally relating to ships that had run aground or sunk.
The word 'wreck' originated from Middle English 'wrek' and Old English 'wrec', meaning 'something cast up by the sea'. The term evolved to refer to the remains of a shipwreck or any severely damaged object. Over time, 'wreck' has come to symbolize destruction and ruin in various contexts.