Shrivel: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something becomes smaller, wrinkled, or dried, often due to a lack of moisture. Can be applied to organic matter such as plants, fruits, or skin.

• The leaves shrivel up in the hot sun
• The old man's skin began to shrivel

Implies a slow decline into decay, often used for plants but can also apply to dreams, hopes, or other metaphorical contexts. This word carries a more negative connotation.

• The once lush garden began to wither without proper care
• His dreams withered away after he failed the exam

Typically refers to plants losing their firmness and life due to lack of water. Can also describe losing energy or enthusiasm in people or animals.

• The flowers will wilt if they are not watered
• After the long hike, we began to wilt from exhaustion

Describes the process of losing water or moisture. Commonly used in scientific or health-related contexts. Can also refer to food preservation techniques.

• If you don't drink enough water, you can dehydrate quickly
• We need to dehydrate these fruits to make dried snacks

Used to describe something that has dried out and become smaller or wrinkled, often due to lack of water or aging. It can refer to vegetables, fruits, or even skin.

• The leaves on the plant began to shrivel in the intense heat
• The once juicy tomato had shriveled up in the sun

Commonly refers to the reduction in size, often used in contexts like fabric or clothing that has become smaller after washing. Can also refer to more abstract reductions, such as financial losses or inventory decreases.

• The shrinkage in the sweater was noticeable after it was washed
• Inventory shrinkage can significantly impact a company's profits

Describes small folds or creases, often appearing on the skin, fabric, or other surfaces. It can have a neutral or slightly negative connotation, especially when referring to aging skin.

• After sitting for hours, the fabric of her dress started to wrinkle
• He noticed new wrinkles appearing on his forehead