wither

Definition

To shrivel, droop or dry up, especially from lack of water.

Etymology

From Middle English widren, wydderen (“to dry up, shrivel”), related to or perhaps an alteration of Middle English wederen (“to expose to weather”), from Old English wederian (“to expose to weather, exhibit a change of weather”). Cognates From Proto-Germanic: Dutch verwederen, Dutch verweren (“to erode by weather”), German verwittern, wittern (“to be ruined by weather; to erode”), Swedish vittra (“wither”). More at weather.

Example Sentences

• "The flowers began to wither in the hot sun without enough water."
• "She watched as the old tree slowly withered with time."
• "Without care, the crops will wither and fail to grow."