What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crease
Example
She carefully ironed out the creases in her dress. [crease: noun]
Example
The shirt had a crease down the middle from being folded. [crease: noun]
Example
He had deep creases around his eyes from years of smiling. [creases: plural noun]
wrinkle
Example
She smoothed out the wrinkles in her blouse with an iron. [wrinkles: plural noun]
Example
The bed sheets were wrinkled from being slept in. [wrinkled: adjective]
Example
He had wrinkles on his forehead from frowning. [wrinkles: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wrinkle is more commonly used than crease in everyday language, especially when referring to lines on the face or skin. However, crease is still a common word when talking about folded or pressed materials.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crease and wrinkle?
Both crease and wrinkle can be used in formal and informal contexts, but crease may be more commonly used in formal settings, such as when discussing clothing or paper products.