medical
: gradual loss of muscle or flesh usually because of disease or lack of use
The doctor is concerned about possible atrophy of the shoulder muscles.
—often used figurativelyemotional/intellectual atrophy [=loss of emotional/intellectual strength]
atrophies; atrophied; atrophying
medical
: to become weak from lack of use : to suffer from atrophy
Her muscles atrophied during her illness.
After her surgery, she received therapy to keep the muscles from atrophying.
Cite this Entry
“Atrophy.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/atrophy. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
