trample
UK: ˈtræmpəl | US: ˈtræmpəl
vt. to tread heavily or crush underfoot
vi. to walk with forceful, heavy steps
n. the sound or act of trampling
trample = tramp<walk heavily> + le<frequentative verb suffix>
- tramp (from Middle English trampen, meaning "to tread heavily")
- le (a frequentative suffix in English, indicating repeated or habitual action, as in sparkle, crackle)
Etymology Origin:
The word trample originated in Middle English, combining tramp (a verb for heavy walking) with the suffix -le, which adds a sense of repetition or intensity. This reflects the action of repeatedly crushing or treading forcefully, evolving from literal stomping to metaphorical domination (e.g., "trampling rights").
The crowd trampled the grass as they rushed forward.
Elephants trample the undergrowth while moving through the forest.
She felt her feelings were trampled by his harsh words.
The protesters warned against trampling on civil liberties.
The trample of boots echoed in the empty hallway.