Definition

Having lost moisture and become smaller and wrinkled, often due to age or lack of water.

Example

The shriveled leaves fell from the tree in the autumn breeze.

Conversation

Have you seen those apples in the fridge?

Yeah, they look a bit shriveled now, don't they?

I should probably throw them out before they get worse.

Good idea! No one likes shriveled fruit.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To become smaller and wrinkled, often due to loss of moisture or heat.

Example

The leaves shriveled in the hot sun, losing their vibrant color.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see the old plant in the corner?

Yeah, it looks like it has shriveled up completely.

I guess I forgot to water it for too long.

Root Explanation

Shriveled → It is formed from "shrive" (from Old English *scrīfan*, meaning to prescribe or to impose) and the suffix "-led" (indicating a past participle). The word "shriveled" means having been prescribed or imposed upon, leading to a state of dryness or withering.

Memory Tip

Think of something that has been 'prescribed' ('shrive') to become 'dry' or 'withered' — that's why shriveled means something that has dried up.

Visually Confused Words