Languish

Verb

Definition: (of a person, animal, or plant) lose or lack vitality; grow weak.

Synonyms: Decline, Weaken, Deteriorate

Antonyms: Thrive, Flourish, Prosper

Examples:

After being bedridden for weeks, he began to languish and lost his strength.
The neglected plant languished without proper care.

Mnemonics:

Languish sounds like "language" which can be associated with a decline in vitality if one's language skills are not practiced or used.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "languish" came from the Old French verb "languiss" which means "to weaken or be weak." It can be traced back to the Latin word "languere" which means "to be weak or faint."

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the 14th century, primarily in the context of describing a state of physical or emotional weakness.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Languishing in obscurity"

Explanation:

Refers to someone or something remaining unnoticed or forgotten, existing without significant attention or recognition.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "languish" with "longing."

Explanation:

While "languish" suggests a lack of vitality or weakening, "longing" refers to an intense desire or yearning for something. The two words have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably.