Crash Meaning and Definition
Crash
Pronunciation
/kræʃ/
Part of Speech
Noun, Verb
Definition
A sudden, loud, and violent impact or collision, often resulting in damage or destruction. As a verb, it means to cause something to crash or to experience a sudden failure.
Examples
- The car crash on the highway caused a massive traffic jam.
- The company’s stock price began to crash after the poor quarterly earnings report.
Synonyms
- Collision
- Impact
- Failure
Antonyms
- Success
- Recovery
Additional Information
Crashes can occur in various contexts, including vehicle accidents, financial market downturns, and system failures. The term is often used to describe a sudden and dramatic event with significant consequences.
In a broader sense, a crash can also refer to a person’s physical or mental state, such as a crash diet or a mental crash. In these cases, the term implies a sudden and intense experience.
The term “crash” is often used in idiomatic expressions, such as “crash course” or “crash and burn.” These phrases typically convey a sense of urgency or intensity.
Etymology
The word “crash” originated in the 14th century from the Old English word “crascan,” which means “to break violently.” Over time, the term has evolved to encompass various meanings related to sudden impacts or failures.
Usage Notes
When using the word “crash,” it’s essential to consider the context and connotation. In some cases, the term may imply a sense of suddenness or intensity, while in others, it may convey a sense of failure or destruction.
Cultural References
The term “crash” has appeared in various cultural references, including films, literature, and music. For example, the movie “Crash” (2004) explores themes of racial tension and social inequality in Los Angeles.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Crash course
- Crash and burn
- Crash landing
Related Words or Phrases
- Collision
- Impact
- Failure
- Disaster
Collocations
- Car crash
- Stock market crash
- System crash
Frequency of Use
The word “crash” is moderately common in modern language, with a frequency of use similar to other nouns and verbs.
Common Misspellings
- Crashh
- Crashing
- Crashin