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fracture

verb

/ˈfræk tʃər/

IPA:

$How to pronounce fracture (audio)$

Dictionary definition of fracture

To break, shatter, or cause a physical or metaphorical split or division in an object, structure, or relationship.
"The heated argument threatened to fracture their long-standing friendship."

Detailed meaning of fracture

It involves the disruption of the integrity or continuity of something, resulting in a partial or complete separation of its parts. When applied to physical objects, such as bones or materials, to fracture means to create a crack, break, or fissure, often as a result of force or impact. This term can also be used in a metaphorical sense, describing the breaking or disruption of intangible entities, such as trust, relationships, or organizations. In these instances, fracturing implies a rupture or fragmentation, often leading to a loss of unity, harmony, or cohesion. Whether describing a physical or abstract entity, the verb "fracture" conveys the idea of a sudden or deliberate breakage that alters the original state or structure of the subject.

Example sentences containing fracture

1. The earthquake caused the ground to fracture into deep crevices.
2. His fall from the ladder resulted in a fracture to his ankle.
3. The intense pressure caused the rock to fracture into small fragments.
4. The impact of the car crash caused the windshield to fracture.
5. The boxer delivered a powerful punch that caused his opponent's jaw to fracture.
6. The stress on the metal caused it to fracture under the weight.

History and etymology of fracture

The verb 'fracture' has its etymological roots in Latin and Middle English. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'fractura,' which is derived from the verb 'frangere,' meaning 'to break or shatter.' In Middle English, it appeared as 'fracturen,' maintaining its sense of breaking or causing a division. The concept of 'fracture' revolves around the idea of a sudden and often destructive split or division, whether it is in a physical object or a metaphorical sense, such as relationships or structures. The etymology of 'fracture' highlights its historical association with the act of breaking or causing a rupture, emphasizing its role in describing both physical and metaphorical disruptions.

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Further usage examples of fracture

1. The ice on the pond began to fracture as the temperature rose.
2. The tree limb couldn't withstand the strong winds and began to fracture.
3. The foundation of the old building started to fracture due to years of neglect.
4. The heavy load caused the wooden beam to fracture and collapse.
5. The skier's collision with a tree led to a fracture in his leg.
6. The intense heat caused the glass bottle to fracture into sharp shards.
7. The pressure on the gas pipe caused it to fracture, resulting in a leak.
8. The impact of the hammer caused the ceramic tile to fracture.
9. The sudden jolt caused the bone in her wrist to fracture.
10. The structural integrity of the bridge was compromised when it began to fracture.
11. The earthquake's aftershocks caused the ground to continuously fracture.
12. The tension in the metal cable caused it to fracture and snap.
13. The ice skater's fall on the ice resulted in a fracture to her elbow.
14. The intense pressure from the hydraulic press caused the metal to fracture.