declining
|de/clin/ing|
B2
/dɪˈklaɪnɪŋ/
(decline)
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 meaning of 'to decrease or refuse.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
present participle of 'decline'.
The company is declining in profits.
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Antonyms
Adjective 1
becoming smaller, fewer, or less; decreasing.
The declining birth rate is a concern for many countries.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39