WordLens

shatter

1 of 1verb
/ˈʃætər/
Forms:shatters,shattering,shattered,shattered
1

to break suddenly into several pieces

C1
  • The glass shatters into fragments as it falls to the ground.
  • The window shattered when struck by a heavy object.
  • The mirror shatters into shards when it is hit by the ball.
  • If you drop it, the glass will shatter.
2

to break or smash something into small pieces

transitive
  • The earthquake shattered the windows of the buildings in the city.
  • The hammer shattered the mirror, scattering shards across the floor.
  • The rock thrown by the vandals shattered the storefront window.
  • The impact of the collision shattered the windshield of the car.
  • The high-speed collision shattered the ceramic figurines on the shelf.
3

to severely disrupt or destroy something abstract

transitive
  • The tragic news of the accident shattered their hopes for a peaceful vacation.
  • The economic downturn shattered the dreams of many aspiring entrepreneurs.
  • His betrayal shattered her trust in romantic relationships.
  • The scandalous revelation shattered the public's faith in the politician's integrity.
  • The defeat in the championship game shattered the team's confidence.