cracking

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a sudden sharp noise
  2. noun the act of cracking something
  3. noun the process whereby heavy molecules of naphtha or petroleum are broken down into hydrocarbons of lower molecular weight (especially in the oil-refining process)

Etymology

From Middle English crakynge.

In classic literature

Synonyms

crack, snap

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