withering

/ˈwɪðərɪŋ/ (bre, ipa) · [wˈɪðɚɪŋ] /ˈwɪðərɪŋ/ (ame, ipa) · [wˈɪðɚɪŋ] /ˈwit͟h-riŋ,  ˈwi-t͟hə- How to pronounce withering (audio)/ (ame, mw)

withering — adjective

  • witheringpositive
  • more witheringcomparative
  • most witheringsuperlative

1. used about a look or remark that is meant to make a person feel small, silly, or

1.形容詞B2
釋義

used about a look or remark that is meant to make a person feel small, silly, or deeply ashamed

例句

Imani shot a withering glance at her brother when he repeated the gossip.

collocation: withering glance

The teacher's withering remark left Wei staring at his desk in silence.

collocation: withering remark

同義詞
  • scathing

    emphasizes sharp, precise verbal attack rather than the shaming effect

  • crushing

    focuses on the emotional weight that flattens the recipient's spirit

  • blistering

    adds speed and heat; suggests the attack comes fast and burns

反義詞
  • admiring

    expresses respect or approval rather than shaming

  • encouraging

    builds someone up rather than making them feel small

用法筆記

Typically describes looks, glances, remarks, or tones directed at a specific person. Compare with sense 2 (SEVERELY CRITICAL), which applies to broader forms of formal or published criticism.

常見錯誤

❌He gave me a withered look.
✅He gave me a withering look.
💡'Withered' describes something dried up or shriveled (like old fruit); 'withering' as an adjective means intended to make someone feel ashamed.

2. used about criticism or an attack that is so strong and negative that it can rui

2.形容詞B2
釋義

used about criticism or an attack that is so strong and negative that it can ruin a person's good name or belief in themselves

例句

The reviewer published a withering attack on the company's latest phone model.

collocation: withering attack

Ziad's withering criticism of the proposal made the committee reconsider everything.

同義詞
  • devastating

    stresses the destructive impact on reputation or confidence

  • damning

    suggests the criticism proves guilt or serious wrongdoing

  • searing

    emphasizes intense, painful quality that leaves a lasting mark

反義詞
  • mild

    describes criticism that is gentle and not harsh

  • complimentary

    expresses praise rather than severe criticism

用法筆記

Often used for formal or published criticism (reviews, reports, assessments) rather than personal facial expressions. Distinguish from sense 1 (MEANT TO SHAME), which is limited to direct personal interaction and the intent to embarrass.

常見錯誤

❌The drought had a withering impact on the crops.
✅The drought had a devastating impact on the crops.
💡'Withering' is almost always used for criticism, words, or verbal attacks, not for physical destruction of things like plants or buildings.