WorldJuly 9, 2026
atrophy
/ˈætrəfi/
Definition
The gradual decline or weakening of an institution, power, or capacity due to neglect, disuse, or lack of exercise.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek word 'atrophia,' meaning 'want of nourishment' or 'wasting away.' It entered English to describe the physiological shrinking of body parts before being applied metaphorically to social or political systems.
In the news
The article uses 'atrophy' to describe how congressional and judicial oversight of war-making powers has weakened over time, leaving those checks and balances ineffective against presidential overreach.
One Man’s War
Read the full article ↗Foreign Affairs