The word "shatter" /ˈʃætər/ is spelled using a combination of the sounds "sh", "a", "t", and "er". The "sh" sound is represented by the letter combination "s" and "h", while the short "a" sound is spelled with the single letter "a". The "t" sound is spelled with a single letter "t", and the ending "-er" is spelled with the letters "e" and "r". Overall, the phonetic transcription of "shatter" explains how the various sounds in the word come together to form its unique spelling.
Shatter is a verb that refers to the act of breaking or smashing something into numerous small pieces, often with a loud or forceful impact. It implies a complete and abrupt destruction or fragmentation, usually resulting in irreparable damage. Shattering can occur due to a strong impact, intense pressure, or a sudden release of energy. The resulting fragments or shards are typically uneven and jagged.
The term "shatter" can be used metaphorically to describe various scenarios. It can denote the breaking or disrupting of an object, structure, or system, leading to its complete collapse or failure. In a figurative sense, it can describe the disintegration of relationships, dreams, or hopes, causing devastation or emotional turmoil. Moreover, "shatter" may indicate the complete unsettling of an individual's confidence, beliefs, or morale, overpowering them with disbelief or shock.
In a scientific context, "shatter" can be associated with the concept of brittle materials, which are prone to breaking rather than bending under stress. For instance, glass is considered a material that shatters easily when subjected to force or impact. Thus, "shatter" often implies a lack of flexibility or resilience.
Overall, "shatter" encompasses the idea of a violent, forceful, and irreversible breaking or fragmentation. It captures the notion of complete destruction and the scattering of broken pieces or remnants, which can have physical, emotional, or metaphorical implications.
To break into many pieces at once; to dash into fragments; to break up the unity or vigour of; to derange; to dissipate; to be broken into fragments.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "shatter" originated from the Middle English term "schateren", which can be traced back to the Old English word "sceatorian" or "sceaterian". This Old English word refers to the act of scattering or dispersing. The word "shatter" eventually developed in Middle English to specifically describe the action of breaking or smashing something into many small pieces.