the highest part of a horse's back, lying at the base of the neck above the shoulders. The height of a horse is measured to the withers

(of a plant) become dry and shrivelled

the grass had withered to an unappealing brown

fall into decay or decline

it is not true that old myths either die or wither away

humiliate (someone) with a scornful look or manner

she withered him with a glance