Atrophy
hardAT-ruh-fee
verb
Definition
To waste away or deteriorate, especially from lack of use
Examples
“Muscles atrophy when not exercised regularly.”
“His language skills atrophied after years without practice.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Atrophy is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "wither" or "waste" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "develop".
Related GRE Words
emaciate
To make abnormally thin or weak, especially through illness or starvation
languish
To lose or lack vitality; to suffer from being forced to remain in an unpleasant place or situation
deteriorate
To become progressively worse
wane
To decrease in vigor, power, or extent; become weaker
dwindle
To diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength
degenerate
To decline or deteriorate physically, mentally, or morally
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