decline
|de/cline|
B2
/dɪˈklaɪn/
decrease or refuse
Etymology
Etymology Information
'decline' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'declinare,' where 'de-' meant 'down' and 'clinare' meant 'to bend.'
Historical Evolution
'declinare' transformed into the Old French word 'decliner,' and eventually became the modern English word 'decline' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to bend down or away,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'decrease' and 'refuse.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a gradual and continuous loss of strength, numbers, quality, or value.
The decline in sales was unexpected.
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Antonyms
Verb 1
to become smaller, fewer, or less; decrease.
The population of the town has declined over the years.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35