rend
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɛnd/
KK: /rɛnd/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become torn or split; to come apart.
Example
The fabric began to rend after years of use.
Tense Forms
Past: rended
Past Participle: rended
Conversation
Did you see that old shirt I had?
Yeah, I think I saw it in the laundry.
It completely rend at the seam while I was wearing it!
Oh no! Time for a new one, I guess.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tear
split
break
Antonyms
unite
join
repair
transitive verb
Definition
To tear something apart or into pieces with great force; to cause emotional pain or distress.
Example
The loud noise seemed to rend the quiet of the night.
Tense Forms
Past: rended
Past Participle: rended
Conversation
Did you hear that song that really rends the heart?
Yeah, it's so emotional! I couldn't help but tear up.
Exactly, the lyrics are just so powerful, they truly rend your feelings.
Root Explanation
Rend → It originates from Old English 'rendan', meaning to tear or split apart. The word 'rend' means to violently tear or pull something apart.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word for tearing apart — that's what 'rend' means.
Visually Confused Words
trend
arend
red
end
uprend
shrend
rewind
rewend