What does shattery mean?
Shattery is a noun that describes a state of being shattered or broken into pieces, often used to convey a sense of fragility or brittleness. This word can be applied to both physical objects and emotional states. For instance, a vase that falls to the floor and shatters into a hundred pieces exhibits shattery, as does a person's composure when they are emotionally overwhelmed. The term is useful for adding precision to descriptions of delicate or vulnerable things. Understanding shattery helps in expressing the degree of fragility or susceptibility to breakage, making it a valuable word in both everyday and literary contexts.
nounShattery refers to a state of being shattered or broken into pieces. It can also describe a brittle or fragile quality.
- A state of being shattered or broken
- A brittle or fragile quality
"The vase fell to the floor with a loud crash, its delicate shattery evident as shards of glass scattered everywhere."
"The earthquake left the city in a state of shattery, with buildings reduced to rubble."
"The shattery of her voice was evident as she struggled to hold back tears."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of shattery
The word shattery is derived from the verb 'shatter,' which has its roots in the Middle English word 'schater,' and the Old English word 'scaterian,' meaning to scatter or spread abroad. The noun form emerged in the late 16th century to describe the state of being shattered.
How shattery is actually used
Formal and informal usage; often used in contexts describing physical or emotional fragility.