# flinders

/ˈfɫɪndɝz/ (US) · /flˈɪndəz/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/flinders
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

very small pieces or splinters that something breaks into when it is smashed. It is usually used in the phrase 'blown to flinders' or 'smashed to flinders'.

For teachers: small fragments, splinters, or shards into which an object is broken. Typically occurs within prepositional phrases describing total destruction.

## Examples

- The glass vase fell and smashed to flinders on the floor.
- The old wooden shed was blown to flinders by the force of the explosion.
- The heavy oak door was reduced to flinders under the repeated blows of the battering ram, leaving the entrance completely exposed to the elements.

## Usage notes

- Pluralia tantum; almost exclusively used in the phrases 'to flinders' or 'into flinders' following verbs of breaking or exploding.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.