wring
word
Definition
To twist something tightly, usually to remove liquid from it. It can also mean to force something out of someone or something, often emotions or information.
Usage & Nuances
'Wring' is formal/literary for twisting liquids from cloth ("wring out a towel"). Figurative: "wring someone's neck" (very angry), "wring out information" (forcefully obtain). Irregular past: 'wrung'. Not used for mechanical twisting (use 'twist' or 'squeeze').
Example Sentences
Please wring the water out of the cloth before using it.
basic
He had to wring out his socks after walking in the rain.
basic
She used both hands to wring the towel dry.
basic
Sometimes it feels like life is trying to wring every bit of energy out of me.
natural
If you keep being dishonest, I might have to wring the truth out of you.
natural
She looked so upset, it almost made me want to wring his neck.
natural