droop
UK[druːp]US[druːp]
v
to hang or bend downwards, often because of being weak, tired, or sad
v
to become sad or weak
Etymology
the word 'droop' entered middle english from the old norse word 'drúpa', meaning to hang the head or sink down. it is related to other germanic words expressing similar concepts of hanging or sinking, such as middle low german 'drūpen'. the core semantic idea has remained remarkably consistent from its old norse origin to modern english, always conveying a sense of hanging down limply, whether physically from fatigue or metaphorically in spirit. its onomatopoeic quality suggests a slow, heavy descent.
Analysis
the word is a simplex unit derived from old norse.
Examples
the flowers began to droop in the intense afternoon heat.
his spirits started to droop after hearing the disappointing news.
the old dog's ears would droop whenever it was scolded.