Witheringly: meaning, definitions and examples
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witheringly
[ ˈwɪð.ər.ɪŋ.li ]
critical manner
Witheringly is an adverb that describes doing something in a manner that causes someone to feel a sense of humiliation or inadequacy. It often relates to critical remarks or gestures that are intended to diminish someone's confidence or self-worth. The term suggests a level of coldness or contempt in how the action is performed, often undermining the recipient. This type of expression typically conveys a strong disapproval or contempt.
Synonyms
contemptuously, derisively, disdainfully, scornfully.
Examples of usage
- She gazed witheringly at his poor excuse.
- He responded with a witheringly sarcastic comment.
- The teacher looked witheringly at the student for his lack of effort.
- They dismissed his ideas witheringly.
Translations
Translations of the word "witheringly" in other languages:
🇵🇹 desdenhosamente
🇮🇳 निंदापूर्ण ढंग से
🇩🇪 verächtlich
🇮🇩 dengan merendahkan
🇺🇦 зневажливо
🇵🇱 pogardliwie
🇯🇵 冷ややかに
🇫🇷 avec mépris
🇪🇸 despectivamente
🇹🇷 aşağılayıcı bir şekilde
🇰🇷 경멸적으로
🇸🇦 با احتقار
🇨🇿 pohrdavě
🇸🇰 pohŕdavo
🇨🇳 轻蔑地
🇸🇮 prezirljivo
🇮🇸 fyrirframmig
🇰🇿 кекіріп
🇬🇪 ლანძღვით
🇦🇿 kiçik görərək
🇲🇽 despectivamente
Etymology
The term 'witheringly' is derived from the verb 'wither,' which has its origins in Old English 'witheran,' meaning to become dry, shrivel, or fade away. This verb has influenced various meanings over the centuries, often associated with the reduction in strength, vitality, or effectiveness. The adverbial form 'witheringly' began to emerge in the English language as a way to describe actions, comments, or attitudes that drain life or enthusiasm from a subject. It conveys a sense of criticism that is meant to diminish someone, similar to how plants may wither and lose vitality. This linguistic evolution emphasizes the impact of negative judgment, reflecting societal values around power dynamics and interpersonal relationships.