Kanji: 萎 (Wither)
The kanji 萎 means "to wither," "to wilt," "to droop," or "to atrophy." It describes something, often a plant, losing its vitality, freshness, and strength, becoming limp or shriveled.
Key Reading:
Kun-yomi (Japanese reading): な（える） (naeru)
On-yomi (Sino-Japanese reading): イ (i)
Common Words & Usage:
萎える (naeru) - Verb. To wither, to lose strength.
萎む (shibomu) - Verb. (Uses a different kanji 萎 is less common) To wither, to fade.
萎縮 (ishuku) - Noun/Suru-verb. Shrinking, atrophy; feeling intimidated.
萎凋病 (ichōbyō) - Noun. Wilt disease (in plants).
Example Sentence:
Japanese: 水をやり忘れたので、観葉植物が萎えてしまった。
Romaji: Mizu o yari wasureta node, kanyō shokubutsu ga naete shimatta.
English: I forgot to water it, so the houseplant withered.
Learning the correct stroke order for kanji like 萎 is essential for balanced, legible Japanese handwriting and is a fundamental part of mastering kanji writing.