Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tear-up

phrasal verb
/ˈtɪr ʌp/
Definition
To damage or destroy something by tearing it apart or by excessive emotion that causes tears.
Examples
  • After the argument, he started to tear up as he thought about their friendship.
  • The children decided to tear up the old magazines to make crafts.
  • The movie was so sad that it made her tear up during the final scenes.
Meaning
The act of tearing something or expressing sorrow and emotional distress, often resulting in physical damage or emotional release.
Synonyms
  • rip apart
  • break down
  • crumple
  • shred