perish
UK: ˈpɛrɪʃ | US: ˈpɛrɪʃ
vi. to die, especially in a sudden or violent way
vi. to decay or deteriorate gradually
vi. (of rubber, food, etc.) to become spoiled or unusable
perish = per<through, completely> + ish<verb suffix>
- per (Latin per-): A prefix meaning "through" or "completely," often intensifying the root's meaning.
- ish (Old French -ir, Latin -ire): A verb-forming suffix indicating action or process.
Etymology Origin:
The word "perish" entered English via Old French perir, from Latin perire ("to pass away, be lost"), combining per- (thoroughly) and ire (to go). The sense evolved from "go completely" to "die or decay," reflecting a vivid metaphor of irreversible departure or destruction.
Without water, the plants will perish in a few days.
Many ancient manuscripts have perished over time.
The rubber seals perished after years of exposure to sunlight.
Explorers risk perishing in the harsh Arctic conditions.
If the food is not refrigerated, it will perish quickly.