Atrophy
As a Noun
The weakening, wasting away, or shrinking of body tissues, organs, or muscles due to lack of use, poor nutrition, or disease.
A gradual decline or deterioration in ability, quality, or strength over time.
As a Verb
To waste away, shrink, or lose strength because of lack of use, poor nourishment, or illness.
To diminish in vigor, effectiveness, or vitality due to neglect or inactivity.
As Other Form
Atrophic (Adjective): Relating to, caused by, or affected with atrophy.
Word History
The word comes from the Greek atrophia, meaning “lack of nourishment” (a- = without, trophē = nourishment). It passed into Latin before entering English in the 17th century, where it has been used to describe both physical wasting and metaphorical decline.
Examples
(Noun – Medical) Prolonged bed rest can lead to muscle atrophy.
(Noun – Figurative) The atrophy of social skills may occur if someone isolates for too long.
(Verb – Medical) His arm muscles atrophied after months in a cast.
(Verb – Figurative) Interest in reading can atrophy if not nurtured.
Synonyms
Wasting, deterioration, decline, degeneration, weakening
Related Words
Decay, shrinkage, disuse, loss
Antonyms
Growth, development, strengthening, improvement
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