Languish
hardNegative toneLANG-gwish
verb
Definition
To lose or lack vitality; to suffer from being forced to remain in an unpleasant place or situation
Memory hook
LANG-UISH: LANGUISHING in a prison -- wasting away with no energy or hope.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The prisoners languished in jail for years without trial.”
“Her career languished after the scandal.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The prisoners ______ in jail for years without trial.”
Show answer
languished
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Languish is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "wither" or "decline" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "thrive".
Related GRE Words
atrophy
To waste away or deteriorate, especially from lack of use
degenerate
To decline or deteriorate physically, mentally, or morally
deteriorate
To become progressively worse
dwindle
To diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength
enfeeble
To make weak or feeble
flag
(verb) To become tired or less enthusiastic; to decline in vigor
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