Word
shredding
Phoneticsshred·ding, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈʃɹɛdɪŋ/
UK/ʃɹˈɛdɪŋ/
Definition
v. to play a musical instrument in a very fast and loud way, often using a special technique to make the sound sound like it is being torn apart. You usually hear this on a guitar or a violin.
v. to play a musical instrument in a rapid, aggressive, and often high-pitched manner, typically involving the use of a specific technique to produce a distorted or fragmented sound. Often used in the context of rock or jazz music.
Examples
“The guitarist is shredding during the solo.”
“During the final chorus, the lead violinist starts shredding to build up the intensity of the song.”
“The band's performance was defined by the lead guitarist's ability to shred complex riffs while maintaining perfect timing with the rest of the rhythm section.”
Examples
simple
“The guitarist is shredding during the solo.”
contextual
“During the final chorus, the lead violinist starts shredding to build up the intensity of the song.”
complex
“The band's performance was defined by the lead guitarist's ability to shred complex riffs while maintaining perfect timing with the rest of the rhythm section.”
Real-World Examples
“Raking or shredding those leaves destroys the next generation.” “Astronomers have witnessed a black hole violently shredding a massive star, creating one of the most energetic stellar explosions ever observed.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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