verb
writhe
ryth
Writhe (verb) means to twist the body sharply, especially in pain or extreme discomfort. Example: “He writhed in agony after twisting his ankle.”
verb
1
To twist the body sharply, especially in pain or extreme discomfort.
"He writhed in agony after twisting his ankle."
How to use writhe
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo twist your body violently, usually because you're in pain.
Common pairings
writhe in pain
writhe in agony
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Word forms
- Plural
- writhes
- Third person singular
- writhes
- Past tense
- wrothe, writhed, writhen
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ in agony after twisting his ankle.
Etymology
From Old English wrīþan, "to twist or turn" — a close relative of "wreathe" and "wrist".
Related words
Rhymes for writhe
See all rhymes for writhe →Frequently asked questions
What does “writhe” mean?
The word “writhe” means to twist the body sharply, especially in pain or extreme discomfort. In plain terms, to twist your body violently, usually because you're in pain.
How do you pronounce “writhe”?
“Writhe” is pronounced ryth (/ɹaɪð/ in IPA).
How do you use “writhe” in a sentence?
Here is “writhe” used in a sentence: “He writhed in agony after twisting his ankle.”
What part of speech is “writhe”?
“Writhe” is a verb.
Where does the word “writhe” come from?
The word “writhe” comes from Old English. From Old English wrīþan, "to twist or turn" — a close relative of "wreathe" and "wrist".
