wrecker

noun

wreck·​er ˈre-kər How to pronounce wrecker (audio)
1
a
: one that searches for or works on the wrecks of ships (as for rescue or for plunder)
b
2
: one that wrecks
especially : one whose work is the demolition of buildings

Examples of wrecker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ryles is a leader and 5-foot-3 game wrecker whose 29 points gave the Baltimore native 87 over three games this week. Sam Cohn, Baltimore Sun, 28 Feb. 2025 The 18-wheeler overturned, and a heavy-duty wrecker was called to remove it. Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Feb. 2025 The westbound side of I-84 was shut down for about four hours while a wrecker removed the vehicle. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 11 Feb. 2025 While waiting for a wrecker to arrive, the squad car was struck from behind by a black Mercedes sedan, according to the statement. Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for wrecker

Word History

First Known Use

1693, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of wrecker was in 1693

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Wrecker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wrecker. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

wrecker

noun
wreck·​er ˈrek-ər How to pronounce wrecker (audio)
1
a
: one that searches for or works on the wrecks of ships
b
2
: one that wrecks

More from Merriam-Webster on wrecker

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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