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Definition of shrivel

shrivel

/ˈʃrɪv.əl/
shriv · el
Adjective:shriveled
•
Past Simple:shriveled
•
Past Participle:shriveled
•
Present Participle:shriveling
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shrivel Lexical Profile

shrivel Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To wrinkle and contract, or cause to wrinkle and contract, especially due to loss of moisture or exposure to heat or cold.

Example

"Without regular watering during the summer drought, the tender garden leaves began to shrivel."

2

To dwindle, diminish, or lose vitality, confidence, or effectiveness.

Example

"Manufacturing output continued to shrivel as raw material costs rose sharply across the region."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for shrivel
Antonyms
View all antonyms for shrivel

Word Nuance & Usage

In American English, the past tense and participle forms are typically spelled with a single 'l' ('shriveled', 'shriveling'), whereas British English doubles the 'l' ('shrivelled', 'shrivelling').

• Rhymes for shrivel

• Nearby Words

shrinkflation
shrinkproof
shrinkwrap
shrivel
shroom
shropshire
shroud

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the mid-16th century, likely of Scandinavian origin and related to the Swedish dialectal word 'skryvla', meaning to wrinkle or shrivel.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Shrivel. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/shrivel
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