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The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

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wither

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How to pronounce wither (audio)

Dictionary definition of wither

To lose vitality, strength, or vigor and become weaker or smaller as a result.
"Without proper nutrition, one's vitality may wither over time."

Detailed meaning of wither

When something withers, it undergoes a gradual and often irreversible decline, leading to a diminished or weakened state. This term is commonly used in the context of plants, where leaves, flowers, or stems can wither when deprived of water or essential nutrients. Metaphorically, "wither" can also describe the decline of something's strength, vigor, or significance over time, as in the phrase "his enthusiasm withered away" to indicate a fading or diminishing of one's enthusiasm or energy. In essence, "wither" implies a loss of life, vibrancy, or strength, resulting in a diminished or weakened state.

Example sentences containing wither

1. The tree's leaves started to wither and fall off in the autumn breeze.
2. Without daily care, will the flowers wither so soon?
3. Amidst the frost, they fear their hope will wither away.
4. True love, over decades, shouldn't wither or fade.
5. If left on their own, do young dreams wither slowly?
6. In the intense desert heat, many plants tend to wither.

History and etymology of wither

The verb 'wither' can be traced back to Old English, where it originated as 'wiðerian.' Its etymological roots are linked to the idea of decay and decline. 'Wiðerian' is related to the Old English word 'wiðer,' which means 'against' or 'contrary to,' and it implies something going against its natural course of growth and vitality. Over time, 'wiðerian' evolved into the modern English term 'wither,' which describes the process of losing vitality, strength, or vigor and becoming weaker or smaller as a result. Thus, the word 'wither' carries with it the historical connotation of decline and diminishing vitality, reflecting its etymological heritage in Old English.

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Further usage examples of wither

1. Let not your enthusiasm wither in the face of challenges.
2. The vine leaves will wither without the support of the trellis.
3. Do promises wither when they're not kept alive with trust?
4. I've seen strong bonds wither because of mere misunderstandings.
5. Under the scorching summer sun, grass can wither very quickly.
6. If you neglect your passions, they might wither unnoticed.
7. Too much criticism makes the artist's spirit wither.
8. The roses will wither if they don't receive their daily water.
9. Many believe that without constant nurturing, talents can wither.
10. Don't let the bright sparks of youth wither in monotony.
11. In absence of conversation, relationships might wither slowly.
12. The trees might wither without enough nutrients in the soil.
13. Your spirit should never wither, even when the world turns away.
14. When you stop believing, even the strongest feelings can wither.
15. Emotions left unexpressed tend to wither and fade in time.
16. Let's ensure our memories never wither amidst life's hustle.
17. Without attention and care, even the hardiest plants wither.
18. Friendships that lack understanding and respect can wither away.

SAT 19 (Scholastic Assessment Test), Deterioration and Decline, Health and Hygiene

decay,decline,deteriorate,languish,perish,shrivel,wane,wilt

desiccate,droop,dry

shrivel, flourish, thrive, grow

eb68db_70bdc49967424cd8a6bd732805e95df1.mp3

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