Meaning & Definition of word "Wrack"
to
Wrack
/ræk/
noun:
- 1. Wreckage; the destruction or ruin of something.
- Example: After the storm, the beach was littered with the wrack of small boats.
- 2. Seaweed or algae washed ashore.
- Example: The wrack along the shore was teeming with small crabs and other marine life.
verb:
- 1. To ruin or destroy; to cause extreme damage or distress.
- Example: The earthquake wracked the town, leaving it in chaos.
- 2. To cause intense physical or mental pain.
- Example: Grief wracked her body, leaving her unable to function.
Etymology
Middle English wrakken, from Old Norse vrekka meaning to throw or to cast away.
Common Phrases and Expressions
wrack one's brain:
To think very hard about something.
wrack and ruin:
Complete destruction or disarray.
wracked with pain:
Experiencing severe distress or suffering.
Related Words
wreck:
To destroy or severely damage.
rack:
To place in a rack or frame.
torment:
Severe suffering of body or mind.
Slang Meanings of wrack
Meaning: To overwhelm someone with responsibilities or stress.
Example Sentence: I'm so wracked with work this week, I can't even think straight.
Meaning: To be in a state of emotional distress.
Example Sentence: After the breakup, he was totally wracked.