be a shadow of (someone's or something's) old self

be a shadow of (someone's or something's) old self

To be dramatically less healthy, vivacious, or robust, often following some traumatic event or negative circumstances. Sharon was a shadow of her old self after battling such an aggressive illness for so many years. This town is a shadow of its old self after so many of its residents have moved away.

See also: of, old, shadow

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.