mauling
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈmɔːlɪŋ/
KK: /ˈmɔlɪŋ/
noun
Definition
An event where someone or something is attacked and severely injured, often by an animal.
Example
The dog was involved in a mauling that left the victim with serious injuries.
Conversation
Did you hear about that animal mauling near the park last night?
Yeah, it was all over the news. How terrifying!
I can't believe something like that happened so close to us.
I know, right? We should avoid that area for a while.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
attack
assault
battering
Antonyms
protection
defense
safeguarding
verb
Definition
To attack and injure someone or something by tearing or scratching with claws or teeth.
Example
The bear was mauling the unfortunate deer in the forest.
Tense Forms
Past: mauled
Past Participle: mauled
Conversation
Did you hear about that bear mauling in the park last weekend?
Yeah, I read about it; that sounds really scary!
I know, right? I can't believe people were so close to it when it was mauling the food truck.
Root Explanation
Mauling originates from the Old French word 'mouler', meaning to grind or crush. The term evolved to describe a violent attack or injury, often implying a tearing or ripping action.
Memory Tip
Imagine a situation where something is 'ground' or 'crushed' — that's why 'mauling' refers to a violent attack that tears or injures.
Visually Confused Words
maudlin
manling
malting
malling
madling
vaulting
smalling
muscling