Trampled

To have been stepped on and crushed by something heavy, whether literally underfoot or metaphorically by someone's actions or authority. It implies a disregard for the subject being trampled, often resulting in damage, violation, or disrespect. Trampling can refer to physical damage, such as to plants or bodies, or it can indicate the violation of something abstract, like rights, dignity, or ideals. It suggests a force or power that is overpowering or destructive, highlighting the vulnerability of the object or subject that is being trampled. The act can be intentional or accidental, but always has a negative implication, conveying harm and degradation.

Trampled meaning with examples

• The careless hikers, unaware of the fragile ecosystem, trampled over delicate wildflowers and rare grasses, leaving a path of destruction in their wake. Their disregard for nature resulted in the decimation of plants that took years to mature. We are left to pick up their mess, the damage to the environment is severe and difficult to reverse.
• During the protest, the crowd was so dense that people accidentally trampled on the belongings of the demonstrators. As they were crammed together, accidental damage was done to banners and signs. Those affected were angered by the disregard of personal property and the resulting chaos that followed as order was lost.
• The new law, viewed by many as draconian, trampled on the basic human rights of citizens, stifling free speech and assembly. Protests grew across the city, citizens expressed their rage at the ruling government which further restricted individual liberty and caused further societal unrest. This act had lasting consequences.
• The conquering army, in its relentless march, trampled the once-peaceful villages, leaving behind a scene of devastation and fear. As they entered they left broken lives in their wake and had no respect for the land. The devastation was a stark reminder of the brutal power of war and conquest, leaving civilians to their fates.
• His reputation, carefully built over years, was trampled by a single act of betrayal, leaving his career in ruins. The repercussions of a bad decision cost him everything. The public's disillusionment and loss of trust ended any chance of recovery, highlighting the precarious nature of reputation and its fragility.