Definition of Atrophy
Atrophy
at·ro·phy
Definition/Meaning
(noun)
the process of wasting away, decreasing in size, or declining in condition due to the deterioration of cells from age, disease, or disuse, or the state of arriving at this state, used to describe body tissue or a part of the body;
e.g. Muscle atrophy can be prevented by regular exercise.
(noun)
a progressive but gradual decline in something's vigor or effectiveness, often due to neglect or disuse;
e.g. She is suffering from the atrophy of her creativity, since it has been a long time since she did anything creative.
(verb)
to waste away and decline in condition due to disease or disuse, or to cause something to waste away, used to refer to body tissue or a part of the body;
e.g. His doctors are concerned that his legs will atrophy from his being on bed rest for so long.
(verb)
to fall into a state of decline and to encounter a reduction in effectiveness due to neglect or disuse;
e.g. The engine of the car will atrophy if the car is not driven for a long time.
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