as in to weaken
to diminish the physical strength of
the long, stressful days and sleepless nights gradually etiolated him
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Recent Examples of etiolate
Some etiolated form of what might be called Ledeenism lingered on before taking on new life at the outset of the Trump administration.
—
Jacob Heilbrunn, The New Republic, 23 Jan. 2020
Jacob Heilbrunn, The New Republic, 23 Jan. 2020
Recent Examples of Synonyms for etiolate
Verb
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Should the economy unexpectedly weaken, larger and sooner cuts are possible.—
Simon Moore,
Forbes.com,
15 June 2025
-
Since then, a series of shifts has reshaped the Middle East and weakened Iran and its proxies, the war in Gaza, Israel's decimation of the leadership of Hezbollah in Lebanon, the collapse of the Syrian regime, and now Israel's surprise attack.—
/ CBS News,
CBS News,
15 June 2025
Verb
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The experience of caring for another living creature has been found to soften inmates’ anger, allowing some to experience warmth and affection for the first time in their lives.—
John Blake,
CNN Money,
8 June 2025
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In European competition, Postecoglou softened his principles and played functional football.—
Michael Cox,
New York Times,
7 June 2025
Verb
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One in 4 children under age 5 is stunted, and 8 percent are wasted, with limited access to treatment, according to UNICEF.—
Maryanne Murray Buechner,
Forbes.com,
7 June 2025
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In a one-scene cameo, Kyle MacLachlan represents the tough-love alternative as Kate’s exasperated ex-husband, who’s ready to throw in the towel, but agrees to write one last check — well aware his daughter will find some way to waste it.—
Peter Debruge,
Variety,
7 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Etiolate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/etiolate. Accessed 19 Jun. 2025.
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