smashing

word · lemma: smash

/ˈsmæʃɪŋ/
SMASH-ing
/smˈæʃɪŋ/
SMASH-ing

Definition

'Smashing' means breaking something into pieces, but informally in British English, it also means excellent or very good.

Usage & Nuances

As an adjective meaning 'excellent', 'smashing' is informal and especially British; it's rarely used this way in American English. As a verb, it always relates to physically breaking or hitting something. Common collocation: 'a smashing success.'

Example Sentences

She is smashing the glass with a hammer.

basic

That was a smashing party!

basic

He got in trouble for smashing the window.

basic

That dress looks absolutely smashing on you!

natural

It was a smashing success—they sold out in one hour.

natural

He kept smashing the alarm until it stopped ringing.

natural