The term 'SHELL of a WRECK' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: HULK (4 letters) and SHELL (5 letters). The term 'SHELL of a WRECK' is often used to describe something that has been destroyed or ruined beyond repair. The word 'HULK' is derived from the Old Norse word hulki, which means 'WRECK' or 'RUIN'. The word 'SHELL' is often used to refer to the outer layer or covering of something, such as an animal's SHELL or the SHELL of a nut. Together, these two words form the phrase 'SHELL of a WRECK', which is used to describe something that has been completely destroyed or ruined.