
Rend
Violent Action
Used to describe an intense, often aggressive physical action resulting in destruction.
The windstorm could rend the sails of the ship.
Metaphorical Use
Sometimes used figuratively to describe division or upheaval in communities or groups.
The divisive vote has the potential to rend the organization apart.
Not Physical
Can describe the act of tearing abstract things, like silence or the atmosphere.
Her scream rent the silent night. Compare with
CleaveDivideRipRuptureSeverSplitSunderTear
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