withering
|with-er-ing|
B2
/ˈwɪðərɪŋ/
(wither)
dry up
Etymology
Etymology Information
'withering' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'wītherian,' where 'wīther-' meant 'against' or 'contrary.'
Historical Evolution
'wītherian' transformed into the Middle English word 'witheren,' and eventually became the modern English word 'wither.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to go against or oppose,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to dry up or shrivel.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
present participle of 'wither'.
The flowers are withering in the heat.
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Antonyms
Adjective 1
intended to make someone feel humiliated or to destroy their confidence.
She gave him a withering look.
Synonyms
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41