Definition

To make something smaller and wrinkled, often because it is dry or has lost moisture.

Example

The hot sun caused the flowers to shrivel up and die.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how the flowers in the garden shrivel when it gets too hot?

Yeah, I saw that last week; they really need more water.

It's sad to see them shrivel like that, especially after all the care we gave them.

I know! We should definitely check the soil and water them more frequently.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shrivel originates from Middle English 'shrivelen', which is derived from Old English 'scrifan', meaning to shrivel or to dry up. The word describes the process of something becoming smaller or wrinkled, often due to loss of moisture.

Memory Tip

Imagine something drying up and becoming smaller — that's what 'shrivel' means, as it comes from the idea of something 'drying' or 'shrinking'.

Visually Confused Words