To hang down limply or curve downward under weight or pressure. To decline or weaken gradually in strength, spirits, or value.
From Middle English saggen, possibly from Old Norse sokkva (to sink) or related to sag in Scandinavian languages. The word captures both physical drooping and metaphorical decline through the same downward motion.
The Hollywood term 'SAG' (Screen Actors Guild) coincidentally shares this spelling with the verb meaning to droop, though they're unrelated etymologically. The physical imagery of sagging perfectly captures how things lose their support and vitality over time.
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