Meaning & Definition of word "Cracking"
to
Cracking
/ˈkræk.ɪŋ/
verb:
- 1. To break or cause to break without a complete separation of parts.
- Example: The kids were cracking open nuts for the pie.
- 2. To make a sudden sharp noise; to cause to make such a noise.
- Example: The branches were cracking under the weight of the snow.
- 3. To escape or crack a difficult problem or code.
- Example: The secret agent was praised for cracking the enemy's encryption.
adjective:
- 1. Excellent or outstanding; used informally.
- Example: That was a cracking good performance at the concert!
- 2. Very funny; hilarious.
- Example: The comedian had a cracking sense of humor.
Etymology
Derived from Middle English 'crac(c)en', of uncertain origin.
Common Phrases and Expressions
cracking up:
To laugh uncontrollably.
cracking a joke:
To tell a joke.
cracking under pressure:
To give way or break down under stress.
Related Words
crack:
To break something open.
crackling:
A series of small, sharp sounds.
Slang Meanings of cracking
Meaning: Extremely cool or impressive.
Example Sentence: That party was cracking!
Meaning: To be very fun or entertaining.
Example Sentence: We had a cracking time at the festival.