maul

/mɔːl/ /maʊl/

Definitions

1. noun

a heavy or blunt cutting instrument, typically with a broad blade

“He used a maul to chop down the tree.”

2. verb

to hit or strike something violently or heavily

“The storm will maul the coastal cities.”

3. verb

to cause something to fail or be damaged by repeated or intense attacks

“The constant criticism will maul the team’s morale.”

Synonyms

  • blunt instrument
  • club
  • cudgel

Antonyms

  • caress
  • gentle