English Reference
adjective

shredded

adj.
US /ˈʃɹɛdɪd/ UK /ʃɹˈɛdɪd/ shred·ded

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    cut or torn into many long, thin pieces.

    reduced to narrow strips or small fragments, typically by mechanical means.

    Simple

    Add some shredded cheese to the top of the pasta before serving.

    In context

    The office manager insisted that all sensitive documents be shredded before they were placed in the recycling bin.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced InformalSlang Sport

    having very strong, clear muscles and very little body fat.

    exhibiting extreme muscular definition and minimal subcutaneous fat.

    Simple

    He spent all summer at the gym and now he looks totally shredded.

    In context

    The bodybuilder arrived at the competition looking shredded, with every muscle group clearly visible under the stage lights.

    Usage

    Commonly used in fitness and bodybuilding contexts to describe a peak physical state.

    flabbyout of shape

My nerves were shredded by the time we arrived in Chicago.

The Guardian· 2 Sept 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated