Wilt

/wɪlt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
an act of wilting; a state of being wilted
The wilt of the plants was a clear sign that they needed more water.
verb
to become limp or droopy, typically due to loss of moisture or vitality
The flowers began to wilt under the harsh sunlight.
to lose strength or vigor; to decline in energy or vitality
After hours of running, he started to wilt from exhaustion.
to suffer a decline or weakening; to fade away
Her enthusiasm for the project began to wilt after the initial excitement faded.

Etymology

Middle English wilten, from Old English wiltan.

Common Phrases and Expressions

wilt under pressure
To be unable to cope with stress or difficulty.
wilt away
To gradually weaken or diminish.
wilt like a flower
To lose vitality or strength suddenly.

Related Words

wilted
Having lost freshness or vitality.
wilting
The process of becoming limp or lifeless.
withering
Becoming dry and weak.

Slang Meanings

To lose motivation or energy.
After realizing the project was a failure, he totally wilted.
To panic or become overwhelmed.
When she saw the exam questions, she wilted.