Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Shrunken / shriveled: Describes something that has become smaller, contracted, or withered, often due to drying, heat, or age.
   • Cowering / fearful: Describes a state of fear or timidity, where one appears to physically shrink or recoil.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Trái cây khô héo và xó ró. (The fruit is dried and shriveled.)
  • Đứa trẻ trông xó ró trong góc phòng. (The child looks cowering in the corner of the room.)

Advanced Usage

• This word is considered literary or somewhat archaic and is not commonly used in everyday modern conversation. It often carries a descriptive, almost poetic nuance.

Variants and Related Words

• Co rúm (adj): to be shriveled or curled up, often from cold or fear.
  • Lá cây co rúm lại vì nắng gắt. (The leaves curled up because of the harsh sun.)

Synonyms

• Shriveled: wrinkled and contracted.
• Cowering: crouching down in fear.
• Timid: showing a lack of courage or confidence.

Notes on Usage

• The primary meaning relates to a physical state of contraction or withering. The secondary meaning of fearfulness is an extension, describing the physical posture of someone who is afraid.