crush

crush [krush]

vt.

[ME crushen < OFr croisir, to gnash (teeth), crash, break < Frank * krostjan, to gnash; akin to OSwed krysta, Goth kriustan]

1. to press between two opposing forces so as to break or injure; put out of shape or condition by pressure; squeeze together; crumple

2. to press, grind, or pound into small particles or into powder

3. to subdue or suppress by or as by force; overwhelm

4. to oppress harshly

5. to extract by pressing or squeezing

vi.

1. to be or become crushed

2. to press forward; crowd (into, against, etc.)

n.

1. a crushing; severe pressure

2. a crowded mass, esp. of people

☆ 3. Informal an infatuation [I had a crush on her]

SYN.- BREAK

crushable

adj.

crusher

n.