Wrecked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wrecked

[rษ›kt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

state of being

Wrecked refers to something that has been severely damaged or destroyed. It can describe physical objects, like vehicles, or emotional states, indicating that a person feels utterly defeated or devastated.

Synonyms

damaged, destroyed, devastated, ruined.

Examples of usage

  • The car was completely wrecked after the accident.
  • He felt wrecked after hearing the bad news.
  • The storm wrecked the coastal town.
  • Her emotions were wrecked following the breakup.
Context #2 | Verb

action of destruction

To wreck means to destroy or severely damage something, such as a vehicle or a structure. The term can also refer to ruining plans or relationships.

Synonyms

destroy, devastate, ruin, shatter.

Examples of usage

  • The explosion wrecked the building.
  • Don't let negativity wreck your dreams.
  • He wrecked his chances of success with poor decisions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The term 'wrecked' often appears in songs, capturing themes of heartbreak and loss, portraying emotional destruction.
  • In the movie industry, stories involving wrecked cars or buildings often symbolize a characterโ€™s downfall or significant change.
  • Social media frequently uses 'wrecked' in humorous memes to describe funny and embarrassing moments, transforming it into a light-hearted term.

Psychology

  • Feeling 'wrecked' can relate to emotional trauma, where individuals describe themselves as shattered after a distressing event.
  • Psychological research shows that people often feel 'wrecked' after significant stressors or life changes, indicating a metaphorical state of depletion.
  • Coping mechanisms, such as talking through feelings, can help 'unwreck' mental states that have been deeply impacted.

Literature

  • In literature, characters who become 'wrecked' often reflect the theme of loss and the struggle to rebuild themselves.
  • Classic novels sometimes illustrate wrecked lives, often symbolizing the effects of societyโ€™s expectations and personal choices.
  • Poetry frequently uses the imagery of wreckage to convey deep emotional themes, illustrating inner turmoil and desolation.

Science

  • In biology, cells can be described as 'wrecked' when they undergo significant damage that prevents them from functioning correctly.
  • The concept of wreckage also appears in ecology, where ecosystems can become wrecked due to pollution or invasive species, leading to biodiversity loss.
  • In environmental science, wrecked landscapes can take years or decades to recover, showcasing the fragility of ecosystems.

Origin of 'wrecked'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'wrecked' comes from the Old English word 'wreccan,' which means to drive or push away.
  • It evolved from nautical terminology, originally referring to boats that had been destroyed by storms or accidents.
  • The earliest modern uses can be traced back to the late 19th century in literature and shipbuilding.

The word 'wrecked' originates from the Old English word 'wreccan,' which means 'to drive or push away.' It evolved through Middle English as 'wrakken,' which referred specifically to causing ruin or destruction, especially of ships or vessels. Over time, the modern usage of 'wrecked' emerged, shifting from a focus on ships to a broader application encompassing various forms of damage, both physical and emotional. The transition reflects a historical shift in language as societal norms and human experiences changed. By the late 19th century, 'wrecked' became commonly used in American English, often associated with the aftermath of accidents or disasters. Today, it encompasses a wide range of meanings, making it a versatile term in both conversational and literary contexts.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,903, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.