dried up, shrunken; (of writing) barren, dull
Meanings
2 senses · 8 examplesadjective
dried up and shrunken; withered
Describes physical objects, especially food, plants, or body parts, that have lost moisture and become shriveled. Can also describe a thin, frail-looking person.
After autumn passed, the leaves on the tree became all withered.
Strings of chili peppers were hanging on the wall, and after being exposed to wind and sun, they have all dried up and shriveled.
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Don't look at him being a shriveled old man, his strength is actually quite formidable.
This apple has been stored for too long; the flesh has all shriveled up.
adjective
(of writing, speech) barren of content; dull and dry; uninspired
formalUsed metaphorically to criticize texts, speeches, or ideas that lack substance, vividness, or intellectual depth.
The language in this report is dry and lacks appeal.
The language is barren and dull.
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The content of his speech was dry and uninspired, putting the audience to sleep.
If a novel's plot is barren, it's hard to attract readers.