LANGUISH Synonyms: 27 Similar and Opposite Words

languish

verb

ˈlaŋ-gwish

Definition of languish

as in to fade

to lose bodily strength or vigor older people, especially, were languishing during the prolonged heat wave

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of languish Many sloths intended for display at the International Drive attraction languished and died by early this year in small cages inside an unheated warehouse. — Rylan Digiacomo-Rapp, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2026 Originally conceived alongside their collaborations on those scores, the album languished as Jóhannsson’s film career exploded before ultimately being shelved after his death. — Spin Staff, SPIN, 31 July 2026 This encouraging performance could accelerate his comeback, even as the Blue Jays languish in last place in the AL East. — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 Dozens of immigrants who were previously detained for months at Alligator Alcatraz are now languishing and enduring horrible treatment at the Federal Detention Facility in Downtown Miami. — Thomas Kennedy, Sun Sentinel, 26 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for languish

Recent Examples of Synonyms for languish

Verb

Starring Zhou Xun, Wang Xiao and Tian Zhuangzhuang, the film revolves around a middle-aged former TV host whose memory starts to slowly fade, forcing her to confront the fractures within her family and the choices that shaped her life.

— Liz Shackleton, Deadline, 11 Aug. 2026
But workers who are rusting out still report to their shifts and perform, although with a fading sense of purpose.

— Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026

Definition of fade

Verb

However, consuming large amounts—such as those used in studies where up to 1/2 cup was consumed daily—can start to weaken and damage tooth enamel.

— MD Published, Verywell Health, 10 Aug. 2026
Apple’s market dominance is built around September; moving away from tradition would upset the ecosystem supporting the launch and risk weakening the iPhone’s dominant position.

— Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Definition of weaken

Verb

The Sparks outscored the Valkyries 31-20 in the fourth quarter as Golden State’s shooting went cold, but a couple of late clutch shots won the game after a 19-point lead was cut to one.

— Marisa Ingemi, Mercury News, 10 Aug. 2026
His attempt comes a year after a driver going 283 mph (455 kph) died trying to set a land speed record at Bonneville's annual Speed Week.

— ABC News, ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026

Definition of go

Verb

But in almost every case, Spurs failed to sell at the right time.

— Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 12 Aug. 2026
The Minnesota United midfielder failed on two penalty kicks in a draw with UANL Tigres on Friday, but the Argentine totaled two goals and an assist in a 3-1 win over Atlante in the third and final Leagues Cup match Tuesday at Allianz Field.

— Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 12 Aug. 2026

Definition of fail

Verb

This formula is light as a feather and hydrating, sort of like a hyaluronic acid serum that’s powerful yet quick to sink into the skin.

— Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 6 Aug. 2026
The case was first launched in April 2009, when Smith and a companion were hunting on snow machines and the elderly man’s machine broke through the ice covering the Ungalikthluk River, not far from Togiak, and sank.

— Sam Gillette, PEOPLE, 6 Aug. 2026

Definition of sink

Verb

Unfortunately, despite the best bipartisan intentions of all concerned over the last 18 months, any initiative for a federal TV and film has withered on the Executive Office and Congressional vine.

— Dominic Patten, Deadline, 7 Aug. 2026
Atlanta City Council is directing city departments to beef up efforts to protect residents from the growing threat of extreme heat after the city recently faced withering critiques from homeless services groups for its response to a recent heatwave.

— Drew Kann, AJC.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of wither

Browse Nearby Words

languidness

languish

languished

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“Languish.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/languish. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of languish

verb

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