Spell Bee Word: atrophy

Basic Details

Word: Atrophy

Part of Speech: Noun / Verb

Meaning: A gradual weakening or wasting away of a body part, usually due to lack of use.

Synonyms: Wasting, decline, deterioration

Antonyms: Growth, development, increase

Idioms and Phrases

1. Use it or lose it: This phrase means that if you do not use a skill or part of your body, you may lose it over time. Example: "If you want to stay fit, remember, use it or lose it!"
2. To let something go to waste: This means allowing something to decline or be unused. Example: "If you never practice your piano, you'll let your skills go to waste."

Usage Examples

Example 1: After his injury, he had to work hard to rebuild the muscle that had begun to atrophy from lack of movement.

Example 2: The doctor explained that if she did not use her arm, the muscles would atrophy and become weak.

Example 3: Atrophy can happen to plants too, especially if they do not receive enough sunlight or water.

Fun Fact

Did you know that atrophy can occur in humans, animals, and even plants? It is often reversible if the affected area is stimulated or exercised again!

Famous Quote

"The only way to deal with the future is to function efficiently in the now." – Gwendolyn Brooks

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What does "atrophy" mean?

a) A sudden recovery
b) A gradual weakening
c) A loud noise
d) A shiny surface

Answer: b) A gradual weakening

2. Which of these is a synonym of "atrophy"?

a) Growth
b) Wasting
c) Celebration
d) Flourishing

Answer: b) Wasting

3. What is an antonym of "atrophy"?

a) Decline
b) Increase
c) Deterioration
d) Weakness

Answer: b) Increase

4. Which sentence uses "atrophy" correctly?

a) His muscles began to atrophy when he stopped exercising for a long time.
b) The flowers started to atrophy from too much water.
c) She was happy when her projects did not atrophy.
d) The atrophy of the cake was unnoticeable.

Answer: a) His muscles began to atrophy when he stopped exercising for a long time.

5. Which idiom relates to the concept of "atrophy"?

a) To let something go to waste
b) As brave as a lion
c) A leopard can't change its spots
d) To find a needle in a haystack

Answer: a) To let something go to waste