ˈrekə(r) noun
( -s )
1. : one that wrecks: as
a. : one that wrecks ships (as by false signals) especially for plunder
b. : one whose work is the demolition and removal of buildings or structures and usually the salvage of material
c. : one that disrupts or frustrates plans, processes, or progress
counterrevolutionary wreckers had wormed their way into the census bureau and doctored the figures — Edmund Stevens
2.
a. : one that searches for or works upon the wrecks of ships: as
(1) : one that appropriates wreck washed ashore or visits a wreck for plunder
(2) : one that is employed in saving a wrecked or abandoned ship or property or lives from a wrecked ship
b.
(1) : a ship employed in searching for or salvaging wrecked ships
(2) : a railroad train or car equipped to clear wreckage from tracks, repair damaged roadbed and trackage, set upright usable rolling stock, and remove damaged rolling stock
(3) : an automotive vehicle with hoisting apparatus and mechanical equipment for towing wrecked or disabled automobiles, freeing automobiles stalled in snow or mud, or making minor repairs or adjustments at the roadside — called also tow car
c. : one that purchases or acquires junked automobiles and salvages parts and material
d. : an operator of a railroad or automotive wrecker