wizen
wizen
UK[ˈwɪz(ə)n]US[ˈwɪz(ə)n]
v
To become dry, shrunken, and wrinkled, often as a result of aging or decay.
adj
Having a dry, shrunken, and wrinkled appearance.
Etymology
The word 'wizen' originates from the Old English verb 'wisnian', meaning 'to wither or dry up'. This Old English term is related to other Germanic words, such as Old Norse 'visna' (to wither), pointing to a common Proto-Germanic ancestor. The core semantic thread from its ancient roots to its modern usage is the process of losing moisture and vitality, leading to a shriveled state. While its use as a verb has become archaic, its participial adjective form 'wizened' remains in common use to describe the wrinkled, dried appearance associated with great age or hardship.
Analysis
The word 'wizen' is a simplex form derived from Old English. It is not productively composed of separable modern English morphemes.
Examples
The apples left on the branch began to wizen in the autumn sun.
His wizen face was a map of a long and difficult life.
Without proper care, the flowers will quickly wizen and die.