Asunder, Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for October 23, 2026, means "apart" or "into pieces." It is primarily used as an adverb, often with verbs like "tear" or "rip." For instance, a park can be torn asunder by a storm, with trails blocked by fallen trees. The word also appears as an adjective, signifying "apart from each other." An example is describing someone standing with legs wide asunder. The etymology traces back to the verb "sunder," meaning "to break apart." Both words originate from the Old English "sundor," meaning "apart." The adverbial use is common in the idiom "tear asunder." This phrase can refer to literal ripping or figurative disunity. The adjectival form can be seen in phrases like "poles asunder," highlighting extreme separation.