Shrivel

Pronunciation: /ˈʃrɪvəl/

Definitions of shrivel

verb to become or make smaller and wrinkled, typically as a result of loss of moisture

Example Sentences

A1 The grapes shriveled in the sun.

A2 Leaving the fruit out too long caused it to shrivel up.

B1 The flowers began to shrivel as they were not watered regularly.

B2 The old leather wallet had started to shrivel and crack from years of use.

C1 The once vibrant leaves of the plant began to shrivel and turn brown.

C2 His hopes for success began to shrivel as he faced one setback after another.

Examples of shrivel in a Sentence

formal Without proper hydration, the plant's leaves will shrivel up and die.

informal If you forget to water your houseplants, they'll shrivel and look sad.

slang I left my grapes in the sun too long and now they're all shriveled up.

figurative Her confidence began to shrivel as the criticism continued to pile on.

Grammatical Forms of shrivel

• past tense: shrivelled
• plural: shrivels
• comparative: more shrivelled
• superlative: most shrivelled
• present tense: shrivel
• future tense: will shrivel
• perfect tense: has shrivelled
• continuous tense: is shrivelling
• singular: shrivel
• positive degree: shrivel
• infinitive: to shrivel
• gerund: shrivelling
• participle: shrivelling

Origin and Evolution of shrivel

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Old English

Story behind the word: The word 'shrivel' originated from the Middle English word 'shrevelen' which is derived from the Old English word 'screofan' meaning to shrivel or contract.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'shrivel' has retained its meaning of drying up and becoming wrinkled, but it has also come to be used metaphorically to describe something losing vitality or energy.