shatter - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

shatter

|shat/ter|

🇺🇸

/ˈʃætər/

🇬🇧

/ˈʃætə/

broken into pieces

Etymology

Etymology Information

'shatter' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'schateren,' where 'schat-' meant 'to scatter or disperse.'

Historical Evolution

'schateren' transformed into the modern English word 'shatter' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to scatter or disperse,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to break into pieces.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to break into many small pieces suddenly and violently.

The glass vase shattered when it hit the floor.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to damage or destroy something completely.

The news shattered his hopes of a peaceful resolution.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35