SMITHEREENS Meaning and
Definition
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Smithereens is a noun that refers to very small, tiny fragments or pieces resulting from the violent shattering or destruction of something. The term is typically used to describe the aftermath of an explosion, an impact, or any forceful action that causes an object to break into many small bits. These fragments are often irregular in shape, resembling broken or shattered pieces without any specific pattern.
The word "smithereens" is believed to have originated from the Irish and Scottish word "smidiríní" or "smidirín," which means small fragments or atoms. It gained popularity during the 19th century, particularly in Irish communities, before entering the English language.
The usage of smithereens often conveys a sense of complete destruction or annihilation. When something is said to be shattered into smithereens, it emphasizes the extent to which the object has been utterly destroyed or broken into countless, scattered, and irreparable pieces. The term can be used in a literal context, such as a shattered glass or a demolished building, or in a metaphorical sense to describe the complete dismantlement or ruin of an idea, plan, or relationship.
Overall, smithereens implies a condition of extreme fragmentation, where objects or concepts are broken down to their smallest possible components, leaving behind a chaotic, disordered state.
Common Misspellings for SMITHEREENS
Etymology of SMITHEREENS
The word smithereens is derived from the Irish word smidiríní which means small fragments or little pieces. It entered the English language in the 19th century with its current meaning of small broken pieces or fragmented bits.
Idioms with the word SMITHEREENS
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blow sth to smithereens
The idiom "blow something to smithereens" means to completely destroy or break something into very small pieces, often with great force or explosiveness. It implies a violent and thorough destruction of an object or entity.
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blow sm or sth to smithereens
The idiom "blow someone or something to smithereens" means to completely shatter, destroy, or disintegrate someone or something into tiny fragments or pieces. It conveys a sense of extreme and devastating destruction.
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blow to smithereens
The idiom "blow to smithereens" means to completely destroy or demolish something, usually with a powerful explosion or force. It implies breaking something into tiny, irreparable fragments or pieces.
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be blasted to smithereens
The idiom "be blasted to smithereens" means to be completely destroyed or shattered into tiny, fragmentary pieces by an explosion or powerful force. It expresses the idea of extreme and irreversible destruction.
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be blown to smithereens
The idiom "be blown to smithereens" is used to describe a situation where something is completely destroyed or shattered into tiny, unrecognizable pieces as a result of an explosion or a powerful force.
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be smashed to smithereens
The idiom "be smashed to smithereens" means to be violently and completely destroyed or shattered into very small pieces. It implies a state of utter devastation or destruction.
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blast to smithereens
The idiom "blast to smithereens" refers to completely destroying or breaking into tiny pieces with a powerful explosion or force. It implies a violent and thorough destruction of something.
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blow (something) to smithereens
The idiom "blow (something) to smithereens" means to completely destroy or reduce something to tiny fragments or pieces, often through an explosion or intense force.
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blow, smash, etc. something to smithereens
The idiom "blow, smash, etc. something to smithereens" means to completely shatter or destroy something into very tiny pieces or fragments. It implies a forceful and thorough destruction that leaves the object in a state of utter disintegration.
Similar spelling words for SMITHEREENS
- smithornis,
- smitherons,
- smitherman,
- smothering,
- smathers,
- smothered,
- Smotherman,
- smoother,
- smothers,
- smithers,
- smotherer,
- Smotheriness.
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