The past participle of the verb "wring" is "wrung" and it is pronounced /rʌŋ/ using the IPA phonetic transcription. The spelling of the word "wrung" can be confusing as it is not spelled how it sounds. This is because the word is an irregular verb and its spelling reflects its historical development rather than pronunciation. However, once you master the spelling of "wrung", it will become easier to use it in context and communicate effectively.
Wrung is the past participle form of the verb "wring," which is primarily used to describe the action of twisting, squeezing, or compressing something in order to extract liquid or force out moisture. It refers to the act of applying pressure to an object by twisting or constricting it tightly, typically with the hands or a similar gripping mechanism, to remove excess liquid or alter its shape.
In a literal sense, wrung is often applied when discussing the action of draining water from clothes by twisting or compressing them to remove the moisture. It can also be used to depict the forceful extraction of liquid from various materials, such as wringing out a wet sponge or a soaked towel. Moreover, the term can be used metaphorically to describe the intense emotional or physical pressure one might experience, akin to being wrung out like a wet cloth, as in feeling exhausted or emotionally drained after a challenging experience.
Additionally, wrung can be employed in a figurative sense to illustrate the act of forcing information or confession out of someone, similar to the idea of extracting liquid. This usage suggests a coercive or intense interrogation that leads to revealing hidden or secret details.
Overall, wrung is a versatile verb form that refers to the action of twisting, squeezing, or compressing something, whether it is physical or metaphorical, with the aim of either extracting liquid or eliciting specific information or emotions.
• Twisted; pressed; extorted.
• Of the verb wring, which see.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "wrung" traces its origins back to the Old English verb "wringan". In Old English, "wrīngan" meant "to twist, turn, or wrench". This verb eventually gave rise to the Middle English verb "wringen", retaining the same basic meaning of twisting or squeezing forcefully. Over time, this verb developed into the past tense form "wrunge" or "wrang" and later evolved into "wrung", which is the modern past participle form of the verb "wring".