wither
verb (used without object)
to shrivel; fade; decay.
was withering
-
past progressiveof wither.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The state Supreme Court declined to comment on the renewed prosecution, but it was withering in its 9-0 ruling last year on how Grant County police and prosecutors handled the case the first time around.
From Seattle Times ● Apr. 2, 2023
Harold Wilson ventured the opinion that it could still be "very close" but Butler's rejoinder was withering.
From BBC ● Nov. 9, 2022
Local officials have pleaded for assistance from the federal government to handle the crisis, and Mr. Abbott was withering in his criticism.
From Washington Times ● Sep. 17, 2021
The response from many of the black protesters was withering.
From New York Times ● Jun. 12, 2020
Her tone was withering, but it held the hint of a grin.
From "Pax" by Sara Pennypacker
