flatten

UK: ˈflætən | US: ˈflætən

Definition

  1. vt. to make or become flat

  2. vt. to defeat decisively

  3. vi. to become flat or lose volume

Structure
flat <level>en <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word "flatten" combines the adjective "flat," rooted in Old Norse and Old English terms for level surfaces, with the Germanic suffix "-en," which transforms descriptors into actions. This logical pairing reflects the physical act of making something flat, later extended metaphorically to mean "to crush" or "defeat thoroughly."

Examples

  1. The carpenter used a hammer to flatten the bent metal sheet.

  2. The team was flattened by their rivals in the final match.

  3. Over time, the mountains will slowly flatten due to erosion.

  4. She flattened the dough with a rolling pin before baking.

  5. The storm flattened entire neighborhoods, leaving widespread damage.