maul

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to attack and injure someone or something severely by beating, scratching, or tearing

   The bear mauled the unattended pack but did not reach the hikers.

2. 2
   verb

   to handle, defeat, or criticize someone or something very roughly

   Critics mauled the poorly researched biography.

3. 3
   noun

   a heavy, long-handled hammer used for splitting wood or driving stakes and wedges

   He raised the maul and split the log with one blow.

The noun comes through Middle English malle and Old French mail from Latin malleus ('hammer'). The verb first meant to strike with such a heavy tool and broadened to severe physical injury, rough handling, or a crushing verbal attack.

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