1. To become totally withered or wrinkled, as due to an absence or departure of water. All the plants in the house shriveled up while we were away because Jason forgot to water them for us. Isn't weird how your fingers shrivel up like a prune when you're in the bath for too long?

2. To cause someone or something to become totally withered or wrinkled, as due to an absence or departure of water. A noun or pronoun can be used between "shrivel" and "up." The heat in this part of the country is enough to shrivel up any plant you leave outside, so most people's lawns are either artificial or filled with gravel. This dehydration machine will shrivel your fruit up so that it will last longer without going bad.

3. To cause someone or something to become totally withered or wrinkled, as due to an absence or departure of water. A noun or pronoun can be used between "shrivel" and "up." The heat in this part of the country is enough to shrivel up any plant you leave outside, so most people's lawns are either artificial or filled with gravel. This dehydration machine will shrivel your fruit up so that it will last longer without going bad.

4. To dwindle or lose potency, especially gradually over time. Our clients' patience has shriveled up—they want an answer, now! I could feel my interest in her play shriveling up by the minute.