Wreckage: meaning, definitions and examples

Wreckage is often used to describe the remains of something that has been severely damaged, usually by an accident or disaster. It is commonly associated with vehicles, buildings, and ships.

• The wreckage of the plane was spread over a wide area.
• Rescue teams are still searching through the wreckage for survivors.

Debris refers to scattered pieces of waste or remains. It can be used in a variety of contexts including natural disasters, construction sites, and even space.

• The hurricane left a trail of debris along the coastline.
• Construction workers cleared the debris from the site before beginning their work.

Ruins specifically refer to the remains of buildings or structures that have fallen into a state of decay or been destroyed. This term is often used in a historical or dramatic context.

• Tourists visited the ruins of the ancient temple.
• The war left the city in ruins.

Remains are what is left after something has been destroyed, decayed, or otherwise reached its end. It can refer to physical objects, bodies, or even abstract concepts like traditions.

• The archaeologists discovered the remains of an ancient civilization.
• The remains of the meal were left on the table.

Repeated word, see first entry for context and examples.

Used to describe severely damaged or disfigured remains of an object, often carrying a negative or gruesome connotation. Can apply to various types of debris, not just vehicles.

• The mangled remains of the aircraft were scattered across the field
• Witnesses were horrified by the mangled remains of the building

Refers specifically to a car or other vehicle that has been severely damaged or flattened, typically in an accident or under heavy weight.

• The fire department struggled to extricate the driver from the crushed vehicle
• The crushed vehicle was barely recognizable after the collision