Meaning & use

maul

verb·Advanced

To injure someone or something severely by clawing, biting, or rough physical handling.

See it in a sentence

The hiker was badly mauled by a bear after surprising it near its cubs.

Critics mauled the film in their reviews, calling it the worst of the year.

A note on using this word

Maul is also used figuratively for a harsh, damaging attack in speech or writing, not just physical injury.

Words with a similar meaning

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