wringer

noun

wring·​er ˈriŋ-ər How to pronounce wringer (audio)
: one that wrings: such as
a
: a machine or device for pressing out liquid or moisture
a clothes wringer
b
: something that causes pain, hardship, or exertion
his illness put them through the wringer

Examples of wringer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Now that he’s been put through the wringer on his two most recent films, Blair has arrived at a necessary takeaway. — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 27 Aug. 2026 But things aren’t as light when the footage ends with Langdon (Patrick Ball), who looks like he’s been put through the wringer, welcoming his former mentor back. — Derek Lawrence, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Aug. 2026 As an actress and model, Daniela Botero’s hair and skin were constantly going through the wringer. — Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 The innovation used a revolving cylinder and a reversible wringer to separate and clean clothing. — Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for wringer

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wringer was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing wringer

Rhymes for wringer

See All Rhymes for wringer

Browse Nearby Words

wring dry
wringer
wringing wet
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Wringer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wringer. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

wringer

noun
wring·​er ˈriŋ-ər How to pronounce wringer (audio)
: one that wrings
especially : a machine or device for squeezing out liquid or moisture
clothes wringer
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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