whither, wither

Although nearly homophones, these words have very distinct meanings. Wither, spelled w-i-t-h-e-r, is a an intransitive verb meaning to shrivel or dry up; to lose vitality; or to wane.

Examples:

• After no rain for months, the crops withered in the fields.
• Even in his later years, he didn’t wither on the court and remained a vital part of the team.
• Her confidence withered.

Do not confuse with the word whither, spelled w-h-i-t-h-e-r.

The formal and archaic word whither, beginning with a w-h-, serves either as an adverb or conjunction meaning to which or what place, end, or conclusion. Although sometimes used without a verb colloquially or in literary device, it is correct to use with a verb.

As an adverb:

• Whither is the maiden traveling?
• Whither you go with my book?
• Whither we examine these remains?

As a conjunction:

• The boat wrecked on the shore whither the hurricane left forced it.
• We will camp here whither the cold has forced us to stop for the night.

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