Withered

/ˈwɪðərd/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To cause (a plant or flower) to lose its freshness and vitality; to dry up.

The harsh sun will wither the crops if they are not watered regularly.

To weaken or deteriorate, as in health or strength.

Her hopes seemed to wither with each passing day without news.

adjective

Having lost freshness, vitality, or vigor; shriveled or dried up.

The withered flowers in the vase were a sad reminder of the once vibrant garden.

Having declined in strength or effectiveness.

His withered ambitions left him feeling unfulfilled and stagnant.

In a state of decay or decline.

The withered leaves clung to the branches, a testament to the harsh winter.

From the past participle of 'wither', of West Germanic origin.

wither on the vine

To fail to develop or succeed.

wither away

To gradually disappear or decline.

wither

To cause to become dry and shriveled.

witherliness

The quality of being withered or shriveled.