wreak
verb (used with object)
to inflict or execute (punishment, vengeance, etc.).
wreaking
-
present participleof wreak.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
That’s not to say all is flopping now for Zaslav and team: “Wuthering Heights” and Evil Dead Burn did pretty well, and the upcoming Dune: Part Three is already wreaking box-office havoc.
From Slate ● Sep. 1, 2026
A drought is wreaking havoc along Europe’s rivers.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 3, 2026
Fraser Sutherland, the group's coalition manager, said: "Climate change is already affecting people's health and well-being, livelihoods and financial stability in Scotland, with more frequent storms, floods, droughts and wildfires wreaking havoc across the country."
From BBC ● Jun. 9, 2026
Yerson Granados used to fish off Colombia's Caribbean coast for a living, but when he discovered the havoc he was wreaking on coral reefs, he changed his ways.
From Barron's ● May 7, 2026
Perhaps the masking charm had worked; or perhaps, as Renn pointed out, the bear was in the west, wreaking havoc among the clans.
From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver
