Definition

Describing a part of the body that has become smaller or weaker due to lack of use or nourishment.

Example

After months of inactivity, his muscles had atrophied significantly.

Conversation

Have you noticed how some muscles can become atrophied if you don't use them?

Yeah, I read about that in a health article recently.

It's surprising how quickly that can happen, isn't it?

Definitely! Regular exercise is so important to prevent that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Atrophied → It is formed from "a-" (meaning without) and "trophe" (from Greek "trophē", meaning nourishment or food). The word "atrophied" describes a state of being without nourishment, leading to a wasting away or decline in size or function.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'without' ('a-') 'nourishment' ('trophe') — that's why atrophied means a decline due to lack of nourishment.

Visually Confused Words