Wreak

/riːk/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to cause (a large amount of damage or harm)

The storm wreaked havoc on the coastal towns.

to inflict or execute (vengeance or punishment)

He vowed to wreak revenge on those who wronged him.

to bring about or cause (something to happen)

Her actions could wreak significant changes in the company's policy.

Middle English 'wreken', from Old English 'wrecan' meaning 'to avenge, punish'.

wreak havoc

to cause chaos or destruction

wreak vengeance

to take revenge

wreak destruction

to cause significant damage

retribution

punishment inflicted on someone as vengeance for a wrong.

vengeance

punishment inflicted in retaliation for an injury or wrong.

infliction

the action of causing something unpleasant or painful.

to cause problems or trouble in a dramatic way

He really wreaked it during the party with his wild behavior.