wrenching Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. verb twist or pull violently or suddenly, especially so as to remove (something) from that to which it is attached or from where it originates
   twist; wrench.
   
   • wrench a window off its hinges
   • wrench oneself free from somebody's grip
   • a deep sigh was wrenched from his chest
2. verb make a sudden twisting motion
   wrench.
   
3. verb twist and compress, as if in pain or anguish
   wring; wrench.
   
   • Wring one's hand
4. verb twist suddenly so as to sprain
   twist; turn; rick; wrick; sprain; wrench.
   
   • wrench one's ankle
   • The wrestler twisted his shoulder
   • the hikers sprained their ankles when they fell
   • I turned my ankle and couldn't walk for several days
5. adjective satellite causing great physical or mental suffering
   racking.
   
   • a wrenching pain

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