withering Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. noun any weakening or degeneration (especially through lack of use)
   atrophy.
   
2. verb wither, as with a loss of moisture
   wither; shrivel; shrink; shrivel up.
   
   • The fruit dried and shriveled
3. verb lose freshness, vigor, or vitality
   wither; fade.
   
   • Her bloom was fading
4. adjective satellite wreaking or capable of wreaking complete destruction
   devastating; annihilative; annihilating.
   
   • possessing annihilative power
   • a devastating hurricane
   • the guns opened a withering fire
5. adjective satellite making light of
   devastating; annihilating.
   
   • afire with annihilating invective
   • a devastating portrait of human folly
   • to compliments inflated I've a withering reply"- W.S.Gilbert

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