Discerp

/dɪˈsɜːrp/ verb

Definition

To tear apart, pull to pieces, or separate into fragments.

Etymology

From Latin discerpere (dis- 'apart' + carpere 'to pluck, pull, tear'). This is a rare, archaic verb that literally means to tear asunder.

Kelly Says

This is a wonderfully visceral Latin-rooted word that sounds like what it means — the hard 'p' sound actually mimics the action of something being ripped apart.

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