fracasser
to smash, to shatter
verb frah-kas-EH Rare
Origin: French fra- (intensive) + casser 'to break'
Usage Note
Fracasser implies violent, complete destruction — stronger than casser (to break) or briser (to shatter). The reflexive se fracasser contre means to smash against something. The related noun fracas denotes a loud crash or din. This verb is common in news reporting of accidents and disasters.
Examples
"Le vase s'est fracassé sur le sol."
Natural Translation
The vase smashed on the floor.
Literal Translation
The vase smashed itself on the floor.

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