dieback

noun

die·​back ˈdī-ˌbak How to pronounce dieback (audio)
: a condition in woody plants in which peripheral parts are killed (as by parasites)

Examples of dieback in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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However, during the heat of summer, based on my experience, if Marathon was not watered every day, wilt or even dieback could result. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 10 Sep. 2025 In the coldest regions, however, plants can succumb to winter dieback during unusually harsh winters. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 26 Aug. 2025 According to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the spotted lanternfly can cause damage, including oozing sap, wilting, leaf curling and dieback to trees, crops, vines and other plants. Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 29 July 2025 Winter dieback is common on many types of roses, including Knock Out. Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dieback

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1886, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dieback was circa 1886

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Cite this Entry

“Dieback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dieback. Accessed 13 Sep. 2025.

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