expression, godan verb (-su)
be in a miserable state; be down and out
Idiomatic expression describing a person who has lost status, wealth, or vitality, often after a fall from a better position. Literally 'to wither one's tail feathers', evoking a bedraggled bird.
事業に失敗して、彼はすっかり尾羽打ち枯らしている。
After his business failed, he is completely down and out.
リストラされ
After being laid off, he walked around town looking utterly miserable.