Definition of droop

The word "droop" has its origins in Old English and has been in use since the 9th century. It is related to the Proto-Germanic word "*drup" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*dru-", which also meant "to bend" or "to curve". In English, "droop" initially meant "to bend down or hang down" and was often used to describe the movement of plants, such as flowers or leaves, that had wilted or become limp. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include descriptions of people or creatures that were slumping or sagging, often due to fatigue, sadness, or weakness. Throughout history, "droop" has been used in various contexts, including literature and poetry, to convey a sense of melancholy or languor. Today, the word is still used to describe the downward movement of objects or the emotional state of humans.