shrivel
verb (used with or without object)
to contract and wrinkle, as from great heat, cold, or dryness.
shrivelled
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past participleof shrivel.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof shrivel.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
shrivelverb (used with or without object)to contract and wrinkle, as from great heat, cold, or dryness.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Wheat grains shrivelled instead of fattening, and the yield plummeted.
From BBC ● Oct. 7, 2026
"A healthy plant would have 70 to 80 grains. This one will produce 10," she said, pointing to one shrivelled shoot.
From Barron's ● Jul. 4, 2026
The way Smith has shrivelled here, with 211 runs across 10 innings at an average of 23.44, as well as dropped catches, is a matter of serious concern.
From BBC ● Jan. 7, 2026
The current account surplus has shrivelled and the budget deficit is widening, despite hefty drawdowns from a rainy-day fund.
From Reuters ● Feb. 15, 2023
The sullen shrivelled leaves of a past year hung on them, grating and rattling in the sad airs, but their maggot-ridden buds were only just opening.
From "The Return of the King" by J.R.R. Tolkien
