wreak

verb

Definition of wreaknext
as in to inflict
to cause to suffer punishment or vengeance for wreaked their vengeance on those they considered enemies

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of wreak For example, porch lights left on in large numbers can disrupt birds' natural migratory paths, wreaking havoc on wildlife. — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 26 June 2026 But in recent weeks, the fish have wreaked havoc for fishermen off the coast of Crete and several other Greek islands, chomping through nets. — ABC News, 26 June 2026 The one-two punch wreaked massive destruction throughout the region, killing at least 235 and wounding more than 4,300. — Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 27 June 2026 Robert Eggers is once again wreaking Gothic period havoc upon theaters this coming Christmas. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for wreak
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wreak
  1. inflict
  2. impose
Verb
  • In Quiché, one of Guatemala’s poorest departments, Gerardi became more exposed to the violence inflicted by the country’s ongoing civil war.
    — Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 July 2026
  • As Ukrainian drone strikes inflict significant military and domestic costs on Russia, Moscow is increasingly promoting its Oreshnik missile.
    — David Kirichenko, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026
Definition of inflict
Verb
  • Instead of doubling down on a flawed system, policymakers can make gradual changes by introducing new tax categories in the existing framework and imposing taxes that correspond to the alcoholic content of that category.
    — Adam Hoffer, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
  • The question is whether Congress imposes clear rules on these deals before ad hoc dealmaking hardens into a permanent industrial policy run by the executive branch alone.
    — James Broughel, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
Definition of impose

Browse Nearby Words

wraths
wreak
wreaked
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Cite this Entry

“Wreak.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wreak. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on wreak

Nglish: Translation of wreak for Spanish Speakers

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