Crush

Meaning

The idiom "crush" means to have a strong feeling of desire or affection for someone or something, or to have a great admiration or respect for someone or something. It can also mean to press or flatten something with force. The literal meaning of the word "crush" is to squeeze something into a small mass of broken pieces. However, in colloquial usage, it has taken on a more metaphorical meaning related to strong emotions and admiration.

Usage

• I have a crush on my new boss - she's so inspiring and kind!
• He had a crush on her since middle school, but she never noticed until now.
• The city's skyline always crushes me with its sheer beauty.
• The crowd was in awe of the magician's performance, giving him a standing ovation.
• I love to bake and sometimes I crush on new recipes that I find online.

Roots and History

The idiom "crush" has been used since at least the 14th century, with its earliest known usage in Middle English as "crushen" meaning "to crush or grind." Over time, the word evolved to mean "to fall in love or have a strong feeling of affection," possibly influenced by the idea of being "crushed" by someone's beauty or charm. The idiom has no regional variations and is commonly used throughout English-speaking countries.

Synonyms in English

• Love
• Infatuation
• Adore
• Admire
• Idolize

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: Amor (love) or Deseo (desire)
• French: Amour (love) or Admiration (admiration)
• German: Liebe (love) or Freude (joy)
• Italian: Amore (love) or Stima (respect)
• Japanese: Ai (love) or Kansai (affection)

Similar Idioms

• cup of joe

• stormy relationship

• cut to the chase