1 a : to break or burst
(no object)
The pipe ruptured because of high water pressure.
(+ object)
High water pressure ruptured the pipe.
b : (+ object) medical : to cause a break or tear in (a part of the body)
The impact ruptured his liver.
a ruptured eardrum
I almost ruptured myself (=I almost gave myself a hernia) trying to lift that heavy box.
2 : (+object) : to damage or destroy (a relationship, situation, etc.)
The scandal ruptured relations between the two countries.
The crime ruptured the peace of a small town.