Witheringly
Adjective
Definition: In a manner that criticizes or rebukes someone or something strongly, making them feel foolish, ashamed, or inferior.
Synonyms: Scathingly, Cuttingly, Contemptuously
Antonyms: Kindly, Gently
- She responded to his foolish comment with a witheringly sarcastic remark.
- The witheringly critical review of his novel left him feeling exposed and humiliated.
- Think of the word "wither", which means to shrink, shrivel, or weaken. Adding "-ingly" emphasizes the intensity of this process, which can be related to making someone feel weak or inferior through criticism.
Etymology:
The word "witheringly" is derived from the verb "wither", which originated from the Old English "witherian", meaning "to fade" or "to decay". The addition of the suffix "-ingly" forms an adverb from the adjective "withering", meaning causing someone to feel weak or inferior.
Historical Usage:The word "witheringly" has been used in English since the late 18th century to describe actions or remarks that strongly criticize or rebuke, causing others to feel foolish or ashamed.
Related Idioms:
"A witheringly sarcastic remark"
Explanation:This phrase refers to a sharp, cutting comment that is intended to mock or belittle someone, making them feel foolish or humiliated.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "witheringly" with "withering"
Explanation:"Witheringly" is the adverb form of the adjective "withering", which describes the action or remark as causing another person to feel foolish or ashamed. The "-ly" ending indicates an adverb, while "withering" alone is an adjective used to describe something that causes a feeling of weakness or decay.