Descent Meaning and Definition
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Descent
Descent
Pronunciation
/ˈdɪsɛnsnt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A downward slope or incline, especially a steep or rapid one; a downward movement or plunge.
Examples
- The hikers began their descent down the mountain.
- The stock market experienced a sharp descent in value.
Synonyms
- Decline
- Slope
- Incline
Antonyms
- Rise
- Ascent
Etymology
The word “descent” comes from the Old French “descent”, meaning “going down”, which is derived from the Latin “descendere”, meaning “to go down”.
Usage Notes
When describing a gradual or gentle downward movement, use the phrase “a gradual descent” instead of simply “descent”.
Cultural References
In literature, the concept of descent is often used metaphorically to describe a character’s emotional or moral downward spiral.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Take a descent into madness
- A descent into darkness
Related Words or Phrases
- Ascent
- Decline
- Incline
- Slope
Collocations
- A descent down the mountain
- A sharp descent in value
Frequency of Use
The word “descent” is commonly used in English, especially in contexts related to physics, mathematics, and geography.
Common Misspellings
- Desente
- Desant