Wilt/wɪlt/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Temperature effects Wilt is often used to describe plants affected by heat or lack of water. My garden plants wilt every afternoon in the summer heat. Pro Tip 2/3Figurative use 'Wilt' can describe things that aren't plants but are droopy like a sad posture. His spirits wilted after hearing the bad news. Pro Tip 3/3Temporary state 'Wilt' suggests a condition that can be reversed if the cause is removed. The lettuce in the salad wilted, but perked up after being refrigerated.