Definition, synonyms and related words
simple past tense and past participle of screw
"He accidentally screwed the lid on too tightly, so he couldn't open the jar later."
In plain English: To be screwed means to have been treated unfairly, cheated on, or left with no good options at all.
"He forgot to screw in the last bolt before shutting down the machine."
fucked, beset with unfortunate circumstances that seem difficult or impossible to overcome; in imminent danger.
"After losing his job and his car, he felt completely screwed as his rent was due tomorrow."
In plain English: Screwed means being in a really bad situation where you have no chance of fixing it.
"I feel completely screwed after missing my flight and losing all my luggage."
Usage: Use this informal adjective primarily in spoken contexts or casual writing to describe a dire situation, as it is too vulgar for formal prose. Avoid using it when you need a neutral term like "compromised" or "endangered."
The modern meaning of screwed began in the mid-1600s, likely referring to the use of torture devices like thumbscrews to exert pressure or coercion. This specific usage quickly broadened into a general sense of being trapped in an unfortunate and inescapable situation.