lacerate

Vocabulary Word

Definition

'Lacerate' is a more serious word for 'cut' or 'tear.' It's used when something is deeply and roughly cut, often leading to uneven edges. It's not a neat cut you'd get with a paper cutter, but more like a jagged tear.

Examples in Different Contexts

In literature, 'lacerate' can be used to describe emotional wounds. An author might write, 'Her words lacerated his heart, leaving scars that would never heal.'

Practice Scenarios

Medical

Scenario:

We have a critical case in the ER, a construction worker fell from a high place onto some sharp tools.

Response:

Administer immediate first aid. The tools have lacerated his arm, he'll need emergency surgery.

Legal

Scenario:

Our client was attacked in his own home, while trying to protect his family from an intruder.

Response:

Based on the evidence, the intruder lacerated our client with a kitchen knife. We'll press charges for aggravated assault.