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 The January 2025 wildfires that swept through Pacific Palisades wreaked devastation practically beyond belief, destroying more than 5,600 homes and businesses. — Los Angeles Times, 15 Aug. 2026 The havoc a hacker wreaks using their attack could be catastrophic. — Frank Landymore, Futurism, 13 Aug. 2026 Beyond Ormund, the episode is meant to give a sense of the wanton destruction wreaked upon innocent civilians in the midst of war. — Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 10 Aug. 2026 And now Europe’s key rivers are drying up, threatening to wreak new havoc across the continent in this summer of climate extremes. — Yuliya Talmazan, NBC news, 8 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wreak
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wreak
  1. inflict
  2. impose
Verb
  • Caruso has been charged with kidnapping, lewd or lascivious molestation, lewd or lascivious exhibition, luring or enticing a child, and child abuse inflicting mental injury.
    — Claire Heddles, Miami Herald, 6 Oct. 2026
  • The picture could change, however, if higher rates finally begin to inflict significant damage on the economy or financial markets.
    — Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 5 Oct. 2026
Definition of inflict
Verb
  • Growing tensions China has been pushing for the EU to stop blocking Chinese imports of advanced computer chipmaking machines, restrictions imposed on national security grounds at Washington’s behest.
    — Sam McNeil, Fortune, 10 Oct. 2026
  • Health care, homelessness The countywide sales tax initiative proposes imposing a quarter-cent tax in order to increase services for unhoused residents as well as address KCK’s healthcare shortage.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 10 Oct. 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 12 Oct. 2026.

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