sap
UK: sæp | US: sæp
n. the watery fluid that circulates through a plant, carrying nutrients
n. vitality or energy (figurative)
vt. to gradually weaken or drain (someone's strength or resources)
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The word "sap" originates from Old English sæp, meaning "juice or fluid of a plant," derived from Proto-Germanic sapą. It shares roots with Dutch sap and German Saft, all referring to plant fluids. The verb form ("to weaken") emerged in the 16th century, metaphorically extending the idea of draining life-sustaining liquid. As a compact Germanic word, it resists further morphological division.
Maple syrup is made from the sap of sugar maple trees.
The long illness began to sap his energy.
Insects often feed on tree sap.
Her enthusiasm was sapped by constant criticism.
The team’s morale was sapped after the defeat.