Word
wilt
US/ˈwɪɫt/
UK/wˈɪlt/
Definition
v. to become weak and bend toward the ground because of heat or a lack of water. You can also use it to describe a person who loses energy or confidence.
v. to become limp and drooping, especially as a result of heat, dehydration, or disease. When applied to people, it describes a loss of vitality, courage, or resolve.
Examples
“The flowers will wilt if you do not water them.”
“After three hours of hiking in the midday sun, the children began to wilt and asked for a rest.”
“The cut roses began to wilt almost immediately, their petals curling and stems bowing under the oppressive humidity of the unventilated room.”
Examples
simple
“The flowers will wilt if you do not water them.”
contextual
“After three hours of hiking in the midday sun, the children began to wilt and asked for a rest.”
complex
“The cut roses began to wilt almost immediately, their petals curling and stems bowing under the oppressive humidity of the unventilated room.”
Usage
The verb is intransitive and does not take a direct object.
Real-World Examples
“Their hopes began to wilt along with the flowers they had brought: "It was a long, long wait.” “Take a walk in London's Trafalgar Square this summer, and people of all body sizes—some tall, some short—will be wilting in the heat: a real mix of sizes.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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