Die back Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To gradually wither or die from the outer parts towards the base, usually referring to plants losing their leaves or stems due to disease, cold, or lack of water.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly used for plants and gardening. 'Die back' is intransitive and often linked to disease, drought, or seasonal changes. Not the same as 'die off' (whole plant dies). Common in passive constructions ('plants have died back'). Rarely used for non-plant contexts.
Example Sentences
The roses die back every winter.
basic
Some plants die back when it gets too dry.
basic
If the leaves die back, cut the stems.
basic
Don't worry if your flowers die back in the fall—they'll regrow in spring.
natural
Your tomato plants might die back after producing fruit, but that’s normal.
natural
I trimmed the branches that had died back to keep the plant healthy.
natural