WITHERING Meaning and
Definition
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Withering is an adjective that describes an action or process in which something gradually weakens, deteriorates, or shrinks over time. It refers to a gradual loss of vitality, strength, or freshness in something, often resulting in a state of decay, decline, or wilted appearance.
This term is commonly used to depict the effect of harsh conditions, such as extreme heat, prolonged drought, or strong winds, on plants or vegetation. In these cases, withering typically manifests as a loss of hydration and subsequent nutrient depletion, causing plants to become limp, wilted, and eventually dry out. It may also refer to the wilting or drying up of flowers or leaves that occurs naturally after they have bloomed or reached maturity.
Beyond the realm of plants, withering can also describe the effect of unfavorable circumstances or criticism on a person's spirit, confidence, or enthusiasm. In this context, it implies the erosion of one's morale, self-esteem, or resolve due to discouragement, disparagement, or the constant burden of hardship. It suggests a gradual diminishment of one's vigor, energy, or motivation, leading to a state of resignation, desolation, or despair.
Overall, withering carries a negative connotation, indicating a gradual decline, deterioration, or weakening of something's original state or condition, whether it be physical, emotional, or intellectual, often as a result of adverse environmental factors or external influences.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for WITHERING *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for WITHERING
Etymology of WITHERING
The word "withering" originates from the Old English word "wiðerian", which means "to fade" or "to dry up". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic root "widrōną", meaning "to shrivel" or "to wither". The word "withering" gained its current form through the Middle English period, where it meant "becoming faded or wilted". Over time, this word has come to describe something that is shrinking, decaying, weakening, or losing vitality.
Similar spelling words for WITHERING
Conjugate verb Withering
CONDITIONAL
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would wither
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FUTURE
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will wither
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FUTURE PERFECT
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will have withered
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PAST
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withered
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PAST PERFECT
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PRESENT
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wither
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PRESENT PERFECT
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have withered
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would have withered
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