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crushing
This term conveys a sense of absolute dominance or an unbearable burden, whether physical or emotional. When used to describe a defeat or failure, it implies a result so decisive that it leaves the opponent with no hope of recovery or rebuttal. It is more intense than "heavy" or "severe," suggesting a total collapse of spirit or structure.
In emotional contexts, it describes a feeling of being flattened by grief, guilt, or responsibility. This usage often pairs with nouns like "weight," "burden," or "sense," emphasizing a psychological pressure that feels physically oppressive. As a noun, it refers specifically to the mechanical process of compression, typically in industrial or culinary contexts like viticulture.
Meanings
Causing a complete and overwhelming defeat or failure.
The team suffered a crushing defeat in the finals.
Causing extreme pressure, stress, or emotional distress.
She felt a crushing sense of guilt after the argument.
Extremely heavy or oppressive, often referring to a burden or weight.
The company struggled under the crushing weight of its debts.
Physically compressing or smashing something into a flat or fragmented state.
The car was found in a crushing grip of twisted metal.
Examples
The champion suffered a crushing blow to his reputation after the scandal.
I cannot believe we lost by forty points. This is a crushing loss.
The silence in the room was crushing as they waited for the verdict.
He felt a crushing disappointment when he realized he missed the deadline.
The peasants lived under the crushing taxes imposed by the empire.
The monster used its crushing strength to flatten the stone wall.
The industrial machine is designed for the crushing of scrap metal.
I can feel the crushing pressure of the deep ocean against the hull.
The crushing of garlic is essential for a flavorful sauce.