VocabDictionary

crush

/krʌʃ/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To deform, cause to break, or compress violently and forcefully into a smaller space.

Example Sentences:
  • He used his boot to crush the empty soda can.
  • The heavy box fell and crushed the delicate ornaments inside.
2.noun

An intense, infatuated, but usually short-lived passion for someone, especially someone unattainable.

Example Sentences:
  • She has had a secret crush on her classmate for months.
  • He was too shy to talk to his high school crush.
3.noun

A crowded mass of people or things pressed closely together.

Example Sentences:
  • They pushed their way through the morning subway crush.
  • There was a terrible crush at the concert entrance.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “crush”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from Old French 'croshir' or 'cruchir', meaning 'to gnash, break, or clash', which likely stems from an imitative or Germanic origin related to the sound of breaking hard objects.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Imagine standing on a dry Autumn leaf and hearing it CRUSH beneath your boot.

Frequently Asked Questions About “crush

1. What is the meaning of “crush” in English?

In English, crush (verb) is defined as: “To deform, cause to break, or compress violently and forcefully into a smaller space.”.

2. How do you use “crush” in a sentence?

He used his boot to crush the empty soda can.

3. What are English synonyms of “crush”?

Common synonyms include:smash,squash,pulverize,infatuation

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “crush”?

Derived from Old French 'croshir' or 'cruchir', meaning 'to gnash, break, or clash', which likely stems from an imitative or Germanic origin related to the sound of breaking hard objects.