Wreak

To inflict or carry out (vengeance, havoc, or punishment), especially in a forceful or violent manner. The term often implies a deliberate intention to cause damage or suffering. The origins of the word can be traced back to Old English 'wrecan', meaning to drive out or avenge. 'Wreak' is commonly used in a variety of contexts, including literature, law, and everyday speech, to describe the act of enacting one's power or authority, typically in a negative way.

Wreak meaning with examples

• After months of plotting, the villain decided to wreak havoc on the town, unleashing chaos as he sought revenge on those who had wronged him. His plan involved sabotaging the town's electrical grid and causing widespread panic. The townsfolk were caught off guard by the sudden darkness and confusion, making it difficult for them to defend themselves against his malicious strikes. The once-peaceful town quickly turned into a scene of disorder as he reveled in the chaos he had created.
• Following the betrayal, she felt an overwhelming urge to wreak vengeance on her former friend. The emotional scars left by the deceit demanded retribution, and she carefully devised a plan to expose the truth about the betrayal to their mutual friends. It was important for her to show that such treachery could not go unnoticed. As the truth unraveled, she experienced a bittersweet satisfaction in witnessing the fallout her friend faced for their actions.
• In ancient mythology, gods often wreaked punishments upon mortals who defied their will. These tales served as cautionary stories, warning individuals to respect the divine and adhere to moral laws. One tale tells of a king who, in his arrogance, rejected a goddess's favor. In retaliation, she unleashed a series of natural disasters, forever changing the landscape. This narrative illustrates the theme of cosmic justice and the consequences of human hubris.
• The storm was so fierce that it seemed to wreak its fury upon everything in its path. Trees were uprooted, roofs were torn from houses, and debris littered the streets. As the winds howled and rain poured, communities were left to recover from the destruction left in the storm's wake. Cleanup crews worked tirelessly to restore order, but the damage would take a long time to mend, reminding everyone of the raw power of nature.
• In his bid for power, the dictator sought to wreak terror among the populace, silencing dissent with fear. His regime used violent tactics to instill a sense of helplessness in the population. Citizens lived in constant anxiety, afraid to voice their opinions lest they be punished. This atmosphere of oppression highlighted the consequences of unchecked authority, as individuals struggled for freedom in a climate ruled by intimidation and violence.