Definition

To gradually lose strength, health, or size, often due to lack of use or nourishment.

Example

If you don't exercise regularly, your muscles may atrophy over time.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I’ve noticed that if you don’t exercise regularly, your muscles can start to atrophy.

That’s true! I really need to get back to working out.

Yeah, it’s surprising how quickly strength can atrophy if you don’t keep up with it.

Exactly! I should find a fun way to stay active.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A condition where a body part, organ, or tissue decreases in size or becomes weaker due to disease, lack of use, or injury.

Example

After months of inactivity, the patient's muscles showed signs of atrophy.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of atrophy in muscles?

Yeah, I think it happens when you don’t use them for a long time.

Exactly! I read that even a short period of inactivity can lead to atrophy.

Definition

To cause a part of the body or an organ to become weaker or smaller due to lack of use or nourishment.

Example

If you don't exercise regularly, your muscles may atrophy over time.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I’ve noticed that if you don’t use your muscles, they can really atrophy over time.

That's true! I read that even a few weeks of inactivity can make a difference.

Exactly! I want to make sure that doesn't happen to me.

Root Explanation

Atrophy is formed from "a-" (meaning without) and "trophe" (from Greek "trophē", meaning nourishment or food). The word describes a condition of wasting away due to lack of nourishment.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'without' ('a-') 'nourishment' ('trophe') — that's why atrophy means a wasting away due to lack of food or support.

Visually Confused Words