intransitive verb

1. to make a sudden, sharp noise, as of something breaking
2. to break or split, usually without complete separation of parts
3. 1. to become harsh or rasping, as the voice when hoarse
   2. to change suddenly from one register to another, as the voice of a boy in adolescence
4. Informal to move with speed: now chiefly in phrase get cracking, to start moving with dispatch
5. Informal to break down to crack under a strain

Etymology: ME craken < OE cracian, to resound, akin to Ger krachen < IE base *ger-: see crow

transitive verb

1. to cause to make a sharp, sudden noise
2. to cause to break or split, as by a sharp blow or by heavy pressure, intense heat, etc.
3. to destroy or impair to crack all opposition
4. to cause (the voice) to crack
5. ☆ to subject (as petroleum) to the process of cracking
6. to hit or strike with a sudden, sharp blow or impact
7. to break through the difficulties of; manage to solve to crack a secret code
8. Informal to manage to gain entrance or acceptance in
9. Informal
   1. to break open or into; force open to crack a safe
   2. to open and consume the contents to crack a bottle
   3. to open and read or study to crack a book
   4. to open slightly (a door, window, etc.)
10. Slang to make (a joke)

noun

1. a sudden, sharp noise, as of something breaking the crack of a whip
2. 1. a break, usually without complete separation of parts; fracture
   2. a slight defect; flaw cracks in his composure
3. ☆ a narrow opening, as between boards; chink; fissure; crevice
4. an abrupt, erratic shift of vocal tone, as from emotion or in adolescence
5. a moment; instant at the crack of dawn
6. a sudden, sharp blow or impact
7. ☆ Informal an attempt or try to take a crack at working a puzzle
8. ☆ Slang a joke, gibe, or sharp remark
9. Slang a burglar or burglary

adjective

noun

Etymology: < ?

adjective