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.
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
Rising fuel prices and ticket fares are wreaking havoc on rivals that compete on price.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 25, 2026
And they were unaware, or unconcerned, that that chemical was wreaking havoc on the soil, weakening the trees’ defenses, leaving them extremely vulnerable to disease.
From Slate ● Apr. 20, 2026
Emran III died forty years after, still wreaking vengeance on his unhappy country: Emran the Illfated.
From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin
