Wreck

/rɛk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the remains of something that has been destroyed or damaged.

The car was a total wreck after the crash.

a ship that has been sunk or destroyed in water.

Divers discovered the wreck of an ancient ship off the coast.

a person who is in very bad condition, either physically or mentally.

After working so many hours without rest, he was a complete wreck.

verb

to damage or destroy something completely.

The storm wrecked several homes along the coastline.

to ruin someone’s plans or chances.

Her decision to move away wrecked his hopes of starting a life together.

Middle English, from Old Norse 'rekka', meaning 'to take, to ruin.'

train wreck

A situation that has gone horribly wrong.

wreck havoc

To cause chaos or destruction.

in ruins

In a state of complete destruction or disrepair.

wreckage

The remains of something that has been destroyed.

wrecker

A person or vehicle that tows away wrecked or damaged vehicles.

wrecking ball

A heavy steel ball suspended from a crane used for demolition.

To badly damage or destroy something.

They totally wrecked that car in the crash.

To feel emotionally or physically exhausted.

I'm wrecked after that workout.