wrecker

noun

wreck·​er ˈre-kər How to pronounce wrecker (audio)
1
a
: one that searches for or works on the wrecks of ships (as for rescue or for plunder)
b
2
: one that wrecks
especially : one whose work is the demolition of buildings

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Once scheduled for demolition to make way for the Lancaster Convention Center, it was saved from the wrecker’s ball by the timely intervention of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County, which acquired a historic preservation easement to protect the property. Washington Post, 10 June 2021 The 6-3, 314-pounder is a distinct game-wrecker, barreling into the backfield with ease and proving to be too much for single blocks on the interior. Michael Middlehurst-schwartz, USA TODAY, 13 Apr. 2023 Mayer could be a game-wrecker. Doug Lesmerises, cleveland, 11 May 2022 Home wrecker? Natan Last, The New Yorker, 4 Apr. 2022 Haason Reddick was a game-wrecker against San Francisco, knocking Brock Purdy out of the game. Arkansas Online, 12 Feb. 2023 Carter is a scheme-wrecker and forces an offensive attack to focus its attention on him, enabling his teammates to produce the gaudy statistics. San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Feb. 2023 The wrecker service will take the items to Selma, according to a press release from the city. Mary Colurso | Mcolurso@al.com, al, 14 Jan. 2023 She was widely disparaged and labeled a home wrecker. Michael Astor, New York Times, 20 Jan. 2022 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'wrecker.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1693, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of wrecker was in 1693

Dictionary Entries Near wrecker

Cite this Entry

“Wrecker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wrecker. Accessed 1 Jun. 2023.

Kids Definition

wrecker

noun
wreck·​er ˈrek-ər How to pronounce wrecker (audio)
1
a
: one that searches for or works on the wrecks of ships
b
2
: one that wrecks

More from Merriam-Webster on wrecker

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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