Shrivel up Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To become dry, wrinkled, and smaller, often because of lack of water or age. It is often used for plants, fruits, or sometimes people or feelings.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly informal and often vivid or slightly humorous. Common with plants and fruit, but also used metaphorically for body parts, emotions, or people's spirits ('shrivel up and die'). Do not confuse with 'wrinkle' (surface lines only). Regional variations: 'shrivel' (no 'up') is also used.
Example Sentences
If you don't water the plant, it will shrivel up.
basic
The grapes were left in the sun and began to shrivel up.
basic
My hands shrivel up in the cold water.
basic
After a week without rain, the flowers completely shrivelled up.
natural
If you spend all day in the pool, your fingers will shrivel up.
natural
Sometimes I just want to shrivel up and hide when I'm embarrassed.
natural