smash

Definition

The sound of a violent impact; a violent striking together.

Etymology

Uncertain, probably of onomatopoeic origin. Compare Swedish smask (“to smack with the lips”), dialectal Swedish smaska (“to smack, kiss”), Danish smaske (“to smack with the lips”), Low German smaksen (“to smack with the lips, kiss”).

Example Sentences

• "I could hear the screech of the brakes, then the horrible smash of cars colliding."
• "The display cabinet hit the floor with a smash."
• "The driver and two passengers were badly injured in the smash."