wither

UK: ˈwɪðə | US: ˈwɪðər

Definition

  1. vi. to dry up, shrivel, or decay, especially as part of a natural process

  2. vt. to cause to dry up or lose vitality

Structure
with <against>er <verb-forming suffix>with <against>er <verb-forming suffix>
Etymology

wither = with<against> + er<verb-forming suffix>

  • with<against>: From Old English wiþ ("against, opposite"), implying opposition or reversal (e.g., withstand).
  • er<verb-forming suffix>: A frequentative or causative suffix in Old English, indicating action or process.

Etymology Origin:
The word wither traces back to Old English wiþerian, meaning "to resist" or "go against," evolving to describe plants "turning against" life—i.e., drying or decaying. The sense shifted from active resistance to passive decline, reflecting the natural process of losing vitality.

Examples

  1. The flowers withered in the scorching sun.

  2. Without water, the crops began to wither.

  3. Her hopes withered after the rejection.

  4. The old tree’s branches withered over time.

  5. Criticism withered his enthusiasm for the project.