wreak
Wreak (verb) means to cause or inflict something damaging or violent, such as havoc, damage, or revenge. Example: “The storm wreaked havoc on the coastal town.”
How to use wreak
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo cause a lot of damage or trouble, usually paired with "havoc" or "revenge".
Almost always used in the fixed phrase "wreak havoc" — people often misspell it as "wreck havoc", which is wrong; "wreak" is the correct word here.
Word forms
wreaks plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The storm _____ havoc on the coastal town.
Etymology
From Old English wrecan, "to drive out, punish, avenge" — related to "wreck".
Synonyms
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Rhymes for wreak
See all rhymes for wreak →Frequently asked questions
What does “wreak” mean?
The word “wreak” means to cause or inflict something damaging or violent, such as havoc, damage, or revenge. In plain terms, to cause a lot of damage or trouble, usually paired with "havoc" or "revenge".
How do you pronounce “wreak”?
“Wreak” is pronounced reek (/ɹik/ in IPA).
How do you use “wreak” in a sentence?
Here is “wreak” used in a sentence: “The storm wreaked havoc on the coastal town.”
What part of speech is “wreak”?
“Wreak” is a verb.
Where does the word “wreak” come from?
The word “wreak” comes from Old English. From Old English wrecan, "to drive out, punish, avenge" — related to "wreck".