Saps

To gradually weaken or drain the strength, vitality, or resources of something or someone. This can refer to physical energy, mental fortitude, finances, or even morale. It often implies a slow and insidious process, depleting a resource or quality over time. Sapping can occur through external pressures, constant demands, or internal processes like disease or despair. It implies a reduction in the ability to function effectively or resist challenges, and often leads to eventual collapse or decline. The process is typically progressive rather than sudden. The object of 'sapping' can be abstract or concrete.

Saps meaning with examples

• The constant stress of the job slowly saps her energy, leaving her exhausted by the end of the week. The never ending demands on their resources saps the financial stability. It gradually diminishes their ability to enjoy life. The relentless criticism from his colleagues saps his confidence, making it hard to make decisions without a second thought. The illness saps his strength and leaves him unable to do the simplest tasks.
• The prolonged drought saps the moisture from the soil, making it difficult for crops to grow. Over time, excessive taxation and spending saps the wealth of a nation. They steadily decrease the quality of life for its citizens. The slow decay of the old house saps the foundation. The constant rain slowly saps away the paint and integrity of the structure.
• The relentless grind of corporate life saps the creativity of its employees. They can no longer bring fresh ideas to the table and they become nothing more than cogs in a wheel. The unrelenting pressure to succeed saps her joy in her work. The lack of opportunities to use her unique talents saps the motivation of the programmer, leading to decreased productivity. The relentless demands of parenthood can *sap* a person's energy.
• The biting cold of the winter saps the warmth from your body, making you shiver. The prolonged siege saps the morale of the defending army. The constant surveillance saps the privacy of its citizens. The relentless exposure to harsh sunlight saps the color from the fabric of the clothes, leading to the cloth fading over time and becoming brittle.