verb
languish
LANG-gwish/ˈlæŋɡwɪʃ/
to suffer or grow weak over time through hardship, neglect, or longing
The neglected violin languishes on a dusty shelf.
Etymology
Old French languir described being listless, pining, or falling ill; early English use emphasized failing strength. That image extends to someone or something remaining weak or neglected over time.
In context
He immediately ordered military and security agencies to do what was needed in order to remove them safely. But sadly, the cargo would languish inside hangar 12 until disaster would strike in August that same year.
More examples
- The neglected plants languished in the dark apartment.
- Separated from her family, she languishes in loneliness.
- He spent months languishing in a hospital bed.
Forms
languish · languishes · languished · languishing
languor noun — A state of weakness or weary inactivity.