Wreckage

/ˈrɛkɪdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The remains of something that has been wrecked, especially after a disaster.
The ship's wreckage was scattered across the rocky shoreline.
The ruins or the aftermath of a disaster, accident, or crash.
Rescue teams combed through the wreckage of the collapsed building.
Objects or debris that are left after a disaster.
The wreckage of the plane could be seen in the dense forest.
Severe damage to the point of needing significant repair or being beyond repair.
The car was in such wreckage that it was declared a total loss.

Etymology

Derived from the verb 'wreck', which means to cause to become wrecked, plus the suffix '-age' denoting a collection or result.

Common Phrases and Expressions

in the wreckage
Amid the destruction or consequences of a catastrophic event.
wreckage of a relationship
The damage and fallout from a broken relationship.

Related Words

wreck
To destroy or severely damage something.
devastation
Severe and overwhelming shock or grief.

Slang Meanings

A big mess or disorganized situation.
After the party, the living room looked like a total wreckage.
A term to describe someone's emotional state after a breakup.
He's a wreckage after that last relationship.