wreak
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wreak

transitive verb \ˈrēk also ˈrek\

Definition of WREAK

1
a archaic : avenge
b : to cause the infliction of (vengeance or punishment)
2
: to give free play or course to (malevolent feeling)
3
: bring about, cause <wreak havoc>

Examples of WREAK

  1. Gangs have been wreaking mayhem in the city.

Origin of WREAK

Middle English wreken, from Old English wrecan to drive, punish, avenge; akin to Old High German rehhan to avenge and perhaps to Latin urgēre to drive on, urge
First Known Use: before 12th century

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