Shrivel - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To shrivel means to shrink, wrinkle, or dry up, often due to heat, cold, or lack of moisture. It describes something losing vitality or freshness, like a leaf withering in the sun.
Definition:
To wrinkle and contract due to loss of moisture or vitality.
Synonyms:
wither, wilt, shrink, dry up
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
flourish, expand, thrive
Common Collocations:
shrivel up, shrivel away, shrivel with age
Derivatives:
shriveled (shriveled), shriveling (shrivelling)
Usage Tips:
Use "shrivel" for things drying or shrinking, like plants or skin; often paired with "up" or "away."
Common Phrases:
shrivel up like a prune, shrivel in the heat
Etymology:
From Middle English *shrivelen*, possibly of Scandinavian origin related to shrinking or wrinkling.
Examples:
- 1. The leaves began to shrivel in the hot sun.
- 2. Without water, the flowers will quickly shrivel and die.
- 3. Her hands started to shrivel from years of hard work.
- 4. The apple will shrivel if left out too long.