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verb C2 Proficient Uncommon

collide

kuh-LYD

Collide (verb) means to crash into something else with force, usually by accident. Example: “The two cars collided at the intersection during the storm.”

verb
1
To crash into something else with force, usually by accident.
"The two cars collided at the intersection during the storm."
"A cyclist and a jogger collided on the narrow path."
2
To be in conflict, or to clash over something, especially ideas or interests.
"Their views on parenting collided almost every dinner."
"The two department heads collided over the budget cuts."

How to use collide

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo crash into each other, whether that's physical objects or clashing opinions.

Common pairings
collide with cars collided interests collide

Word forms

collided past tense, collides singular

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Test yourself on “collide” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

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The two cars _____ at the intersection during the storm.

Etymology

From Latin collidere, "to strike together" — from com- ("together") and laedere ("to strike or hurt").

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for collide

See all rhymes for collide →

Frequently asked questions

What does “collide” mean?

The word “collide” means to crash into something else with force, usually by accident. In plain terms, to crash into each other, whether that's physical objects or clashing opinions.

How do you pronounce “collide”?

“Collide” is pronounced kuh-LYD (/kəˈlaɪd/ in IPA).

How do you use “collide” in a sentence?

Here is “collide” used in a sentence: “The two cars collided at the intersection during the storm.”

What is another word for “collide”?

Words with a similar meaning to “collide” include clash.

What part of speech is “collide”?

“Collide” is a verb.

Where does the word “collide” come from?

The word “collide” comes from Latin. From Latin collidere, "to strike together" — from com- ("together") and laedere ("to strike or hurt").

Is “collide” a common word?

“Collide” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.

How many meanings does “collide” have?

“Collide” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to crash into something else with force, usually by accident.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial