shrivel
|shriv-el|
B2
/ˈʃrɪvəl/
wrinkled and contracted
Etymology
Etymology Information
'shrivel' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'shryvelen,' where 'shrive' meant 'to contract' and '-el' was a diminutive suffix.
Historical Evolution
'shryvelen' transformed into the modern English word 'shrivel' through phonetic changes over time.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to contract or wrinkle,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to become or make something dry and wrinkled as a result of heat, cold, or age.
The leaves began to shrivel in the heat.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/22 19:06