wrecker

noun

wreck·​er ˈre-kər 

1

a

: one that searches for or works on the wrecks of ships (as for rescue or for plunder)

b

: tow truck

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 | [e-mail], al, 14 Jan. 2023

She was widely disparaged and labeled a home wrecker. —Michael Astor, New York Times, 20 Jan. 2022

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Word History

First Known Use

1693, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing wrecker

• home-wrecker

• home-wrecker

Kids Definition

wrecker

noun

wreck·​er ˈrek-ər 

1

a

: one that searches for or works on the wrecks of ships

b

: tow truck

2

: one that wrecks