Crushed
ˈkrʌʃt
Definitions
3 meaningsTo break or flatten something by pressing it hard.
ˈkrʌʃt
To compress or squeeze something with force so as to break or damage it.
The earthquake crushed several buildings.
💡 Simply: Imagine you accidentally step on a can of soda. When you squish it flat, that's crushing! It's like when a toy breaks when you squeeze it too hard or when a car is totally smashed up in an accident.
👶 For kids: To make something flat or into pieces by squeezing it very hard.
More Examples
He crushed the empty can in his hand.
The crowd was so dense that I felt crushed.
How It's Used
"The car was crushed in the accident."
"Crush the garlic cloves before adding them to the pan."
To defeat or overwhelm someone or something severely.
ˈkrʌʃt
To defeat or subdue someone or something completely.
The army crushed the rebellion.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing a game, and you win by a lot! You completely beat the other team. That's crushing! It also happens when something you really want doesn't happen, and it makes you feel really sad.
👶 For kids: To win or beat someone or something very strongly. It's like when you win a game by a lot!
More Examples
The company's profits were crushed by the recession.
Her spirit was crushed by the constant criticism.
How It's Used
"The home team crushed their rivals in the final game."
"Her dreams were crushed when she didn't get the job."
Feeling very disappointed or heartbroken.
ˈkrʌʃt
Overwhelmed or deeply upset.
She was crushed by his rejection.
💡 Simply: Imagine you really want a puppy, but your parents say no. It's super sad, and you feel really down. That's like feeling crushed – like your feelings have been squished.
👶 For kids: Feeling very, very sad or upset.
More Examples
He felt crushed after failing the exam.
The news left her feeling crushed and despondent.
How It's Used
"She was crushed when she heard the news about her friend."
"His dreams were crushed"
Idioms & expressions
crushed ice
Ice that has been broken into small pieces.
"She asked for a drink with crushed ice."
crush on someone
To feel a romantic attraction towards someone.
"He has a crush on Sarah."
From Middle English crushen, from Old French cruissir, to break, crush, of uncertain origin.
Used since the 14th century, initially meaning 'to break or bruise' and later evolving to include emotional states.
Memory tip
Imagine stepping on a can – CRUSHED!