wreak
verb (used with object)
to inflict or execute (punishment, vengeance, etc.).
have been wreaking
-
present perfect progressiveof wreak.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
Fires have been wreaking havoc across France and Spain, as they often do when conditions are dry and wind is high.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 2, 2026
At least 11 people have drowned after getting caught in rip currents that have been wreaking havoc along the Gulf of Mexico coastline in recent weeks, as rising temperatures have pushed swimmers into cooler waters.
From New York Times ● Jun. 30, 2023
Experts are warning that heat, flooding, drought, wildfires, and other disasters have been wreaking economic havoc, with worse to come.
From Salon ● Jul. 16, 2022
Drug shortages have been wreaking havoc in hospital pharmacies, forcing doctors to postpone chemotherapy and surgeries and give patients treatments that may be less effective, have more-serious side effects or cost substantially more.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 21, 2012
Great that you're finally letting French girls play soccer, but American girls have been wreaking havoc around the goalmouth for 30 years.
From Slate ● Jul. 12, 2011
