withering

(noun) any weakening or degeneration (especially through lack of use). Synonyms: atrophy.

(verb) wither, as with a loss of moisture. Synonyms: shrivel, shrivel up, shrink, wither. Example: "The fruit dried and shriveled."

(verb) lose freshness, vigor, or vitality. Synonyms: fade, wither. Example: "Her bloom was fading."

(adj) wreaking or capable of wreaking complete destruction. Synonyms: annihilative, annihilating, devastating. Examples: "Possessing annihilative power." "A devastating hurricane." "The guns opened a withering fire."

(adj) making light of. Synonyms: annihilating, devastating. Examples: "Afire with annihilating invective." "A devastating portrait of human folly." "To compliments inflated i've a withering reply"- w.s.gilbert."