wilt
Meaning: To become limp and drooping, especially of a plant losing freshness. Figuratively, to lose energy, enthusiasm, or composure under pressure or in difficult conditions.
Wilt is closely related to wither but implies a more immediate, reversible loss of vigour — a plant wilts in heat but may recover when watered, whereas withering suggests irreversible decay. Figuratively, it appears in sports and political journalism: 'the team wilted under pressure,' 'his confidence wilted in the face of sustained questioning.' It suggests a visible, physical collapse of spirit or energy rather than a gradual decline. In plant pathology, 'wilt' is also a noun describing specific fungal diseases.
Examples
- The flowers had wilted overnight in the stifling heat of the conservatory. 花在温室令人窒息的高温中一夜之间就萎蔫了。Las flores se habían marchitado durante la noche por el calor sofocante del invernadero.温室の蒸し暑さの中で花が一晩でしおれてしまった。온실의 무더위 속에서 꽃이 하룻밤 사이에 시들어 버렸다.
- The batsmen wilted under the relentless pace attack on a hostile pitch in Brisbane. 在布里斯班险恶的球场上,面对无情的快速进攻,击球手们崩溃了。Los bateadores se vinieron abajo ante el implacable ataque rápido en un terreno hostil en Brisbane.ブリスベンの厳しいピッチで容赦ないペースの攻撃にさらされ、バッツマンたちはしぼんでしまった。브리즈번의 험한 피치에서 쏟아지는 가차 없는 속구 공격에 타자들이 기세를 잃었다.
- Her initial resolve appeared to wilt as the cross-examination grew more aggressive. 随着交叉盘问变得越来越具有攻击性,她最初的决心似乎开始动摇。Su determinación inicial pareció flaquear a medida que el contrainterrogatorio se volvía más agresivo.反対尋問がより攻撃的になるにつれ、彼女の当初の決意はしぼんでいくように見えた。반대 심문이 더욱 공격적으로 변하면서 그녀의 처음 결의가 흔들리는 것처럼 보였다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: journalism, general, academic
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
Perhaps from Middle Dutch or Middle Low German welken (to wilt, to fade), or possibly an alteration of dialect welk (to wither). First attested in English in the late 17th century.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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