Meaning & Definition of word "Wrack"
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.