Mangle

To severely damage something by cutting, tearing, or crushing; to ruin or spoil something completely. This often implies violent or forceful action resulting in a distorted or unrecognizable state. It can apply to physical objects, abstract concepts like reputations or arguments, or even living beings. The term suggests a loss of form, function, or integrity. It carries a strong connotation of severity and often implies a degree of violence or carelessness. It can also signify a twisting or distorting of facts or information. Additionally, the word can refer to an old machine, usually heated, used to squeeze water out of clothes during washing or as a method to flatten things. The modern understanding however focuses on destruction and severe damage.

Mangle meaning with examples

• The hurricane's ferocious winds **mangled** the coastal town, leaving twisted wreckage and rubble in its wake. Buildings were reduced to skeletal frames, and cars were overturned, making the area unrecognisable. The devastation was so complete that rescue workers struggled to navigate the debris field, as entire neighbourhoods were completely destroyed, resulting in widespread damage.
• The car crash **mangled** the vehicle beyond repair, the twisted metal making it difficult to identify the model. Rescue teams had to carefully extract the driver as parts were completely dislodged from the car, resulting in what was almost an entire metal sculpture. There was almost nothing left of it. It looked like nothing more than an accordion.
• The scandal **mangled** the politician's reputation, making it impossible for him to regain public trust. His career was over. Allegations and revelations surfaced. No matter how he tried he couldn't reverse the damage to his public image. His hopes and dreams were crushed under an avalanche of bad press and public outcry.
• The harsh criticism **mangled** the young artist's confidence, making them hesitant to share their work. They now found it very hard to be able to put brush to canvas due to the intense critique and their creativity was being stifled by self-doubt. The reviews were savage. It would be a long road back for them.
• The dog **mangled** its new toy, ripping the stuffing out and leaving it unrecognizable within minutes. The puppy made short work of the toy; it was clearly underprepared to endure its onslaught. The plush was shredded, and feathers were scattered about, leaving no sign of its original plush glory.