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Definitions

shatter

[shat-er] / ˈʃæt ər /
VERB
break into small pieces
Synonyms
STRONGEST
blast burst crack crush dash demolish destroy disable exhaust explode fracture impair ruin smash smash up snap splinter split wreck
STRONG
blight crash crunch fragment fragmentize implode overturn pulverize rend rive scrunch shiver smatter torpedo total
WEAK
fragmentalize smash to smithereens splinterize wrack up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
aid assist build combine compliment construct create encourage fix help improve inspirit lose mend praise repair restore
VERB
hurt someone badly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
crush destroy devastate rattle ruin
STRONG
dumbfound upset
WEAK
break a heart
Antonyms
STRONGEST
build construct create improve
WEAK
aid assist fix help mend

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Time and again, Garbus and her experts’ perspectives responsibly remind us that we’re watching a father shatter the bonds between his children.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026

If the ice is too cold, it could shatter on impact.

From BBC • Feb. 10, 2026

The 24-time Slam winner is in good form so far as he bids to shatter the recent dominance of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.

From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026

Phil Sklar, CEO of the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, said Hoosiers bobbleheads are on pace to shatter records for college championship sales.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 23, 2026

“Naw. A body is too soft to shatter into pieces.”

From "Shouting at the Rain" by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.