wreak
verb (used with object)
to inflict or execute (punishment, vengeance, etc.).
had wreaked
-
past perfectof wreak.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
Ms. Jones, who moved in with her mother after her landlord did not renew the lease on a subsidized apartment, said the displacement had wreaked family havoc.
From New York Times ● Dec. 11, 2023
Under the ANC, maladministration and corruption had wreaked havoc on the local budget.
From BBC ● Dec. 3, 2023
It was March 11, 2020 when the WHO issued its declaration, driving home the severity of the threat faced by a virus that at that point had wreaked havoc primarily in Italy and China.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 10, 2022
After a tornado had wreaked havoc on their property one night, Schneemann invited 10 friends over and handed out cards that instructed them to negotiate the litter of fallen trees.
From The Guardian ● Mar. 8, 2019
Her stockpiling of power had wreaked havoc on nature.
From "Huntress" by Malinda Lo
