(verb) to injure someone or an animal by attacking and tearing at them with your teeth or claws, (noun) a heavy hammer, typically with a long handle and a large, flat head

maul someone to death, maul something into shape, maul over

Formal and Informal Expressions of maul

In different contexts, you can replace 'maul' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'savage' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'rip apart' is a commonplace synonym.

maul: Explore its Definition & Usage

maul Definition

1(verb) to injure someone or an animal by attacking and tearing at them with your teeth or claws
2 (noun) a heavy hammer, typically with a long handle and a large, flat head

Using maul: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "maul" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The bear mauled the hiker.
Example
The cat mauled the mouse to death.
Example
He was mauled by a pack of wolves.
Example
I need a maul to split this wood.

maul Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for maul

(verb) mangle, savage, tear apart
(noun) sledgehammer, mallet, gavel

Phrases with maul

maul someone to death
to attack and kill someone by tearing at them with your teeth or claws
Example
The tiger mauled the zookeeper to death.
maul something into shape
to shape or form something using a maul or other heavy tool
Example
He used a maul to maul the metal into shape.
maul over
to think about something carefully and for a long time
Example
I need some time to maul over your proposal before I can give you an answer.

Origins of maul

from Middle English 'maulen', meaning 'to mangle'

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Summary: maul in Brief

The term 'maul' [mɔːl] can be used as a verb or a noun. As a verb, it means to attack and tear someone or an animal with teeth or claws. As a noun, it refers to a heavy hammer with a flat head. Examples of its use include 'The bear mauled the hiker,' and 'I need a maul to split this wood.' Phrases like 'maul over' mean to think about something carefully, while 'maul something into shape' means to shape or form something using a maul or other heavy tool.