Library / English Dictionary

WITHERING

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 I. (noun) 

Sense 1

Meaning:

Any weakening or degeneration (especially through lack of use)

Synonyms:

atrophy; withering

Classified under:

Nouns denoting natural events

Hypernyms ("withering" is a kind of...):

weakening (becoming weaker)

Derivation:

wither (lose freshness, vigor, or vitality)

 II. (adjective) 

Sense 1

Meaning:

Wreaking or capable of wreaking complete destruction

Example:

the guns opened a withering fire

Synonyms:

annihilating; annihilative; devastating; withering

Classified under:

Adjectives

Similar:

destructive (causing destruction or much damage)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Making light of

Example:

to compliments inflated I've a withering reply

Synonyms:

annihilating; devastating; withering

Classified under:

Adjectives

Similar:

disrespectful (exhibiting lack of respect; rude and discourteous)

 III. (verb) 

Sense 1

-ing form of the verb wither

Credits