What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
withered
Example
The withered leaves on the tree rustled in the wind. [withered: adjective]
Example
After working long hours, she looked withered and drained. [withered: adjective]
Example
His dreams of becoming an artist had withered away over time. [withered: verb]
shriveled
Example
The shriveled apple lay forgotten in the fruit bowl. [shriveled: adjective]
Example
Her hands were shriveled and rough from years of hard work. [shriveled: adjective]
Example
The grapes had shriveled up in the sun and were no longer edible. [shriveled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shriveled is more commonly used than withered in everyday language. Shriveled is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while withered is less common and refers to specific contexts such as plants, flowers, and dreams.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between withered and shriveled?
Both withered and shriveled are informal words that can be used in casual conversations. However, withered can also be used in formal writing to describe a metaphorical loss of vitality or strength, while shriveled is more commonly used in informal contexts.
