Wizen

To wizen is to become dry, shrunken, and wrinkled, often as a result of age, lack of moisture, or decay. The process implies a loss of plumpness, vitality, and firmness, creating a shriveled appearance. This can apply to organic matter such as fruits, vegetables, or skin, but also metaphorically to abstract concepts like creativity or spirit. The change is usually irreversible, signifying a decline or degradation. It suggests a gradual process of deterioration, leading to a diminished state of the original object or being.

Wizen meaning with examples

• The scorching sun caused the ripe peaches to wizen on the tree, their vibrant hues fading into a dull brown, no longer appealing to the birds. Their once juicy flesh, now withered and dry, offered little sustenance.
• Years of neglect allowed the old woman's skin to wizen, the vibrant glow of youth replaced by fine lines and a fragile, papery texture. She found comfort only in the wrinkles that told her tales of time.
• Without regular watering, the houseplant began to wizen, its once vibrant leaves turning crispy at the edges and curling inward, signaling a desperate need for hydration before it could be revived.
• The neglected apple in the fruit bowl started to wizen, losing its crispness and color, and showing signs of age. It was a silent testament to time and lack of care.
• The once-vibrant spirit of the elderly artist seemed to wizen as he lost his sight, his creative energy slowly fading into a muted version of its former self, a shadow of its true power.