Meaning & Definition of word "Declension"
Declension
/dɪˈklɛnʃən/
noun:
- 1. The variation of the form of a noun, pronoun, or adjective to express grammatical features such as case, number, and gender.
- Example: Latin has a complex system of declension with many cases affecting the endings of nouns.
- 2. A class of nouns or adjectives that share a common pattern of inflection.
- Example: In Latin, there are five primary declensions, each with its own set of endings.
- 3. A decline or reduction in the quality or condition of something.
- Example: The declension of the Roman Empire marked the end of an era in ancient history.
Etymology
●From Latin 'declensio', meaning 'to lean down' or 'to fall away'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
gradual declension:
A slow decline or decrease in quality or quantity.
moral declension:
A decline in ethical standards or behavior.
declension of a language:
The process by which a language's grammatical forms change over time.
Related Words
decline:
A decrease or diminishing in quality, quantity, or strength.
inflection:
The modification of a word to express different grammatical categories.
case:
A grammatical category determined by the syntactic or semantic function of a noun.
Slang Meanings of declension
Meaning: Slang for a noticeable decrease in performance or quality.
● Example Sentence: Ever since the new management took over, the sales team has been in a serious declension.
Meaning: Informal reference to someone doing poorly in school due to lack of effort.
● Example Sentence: If he keeps skipping class, his grades will be in declension by the end of the semester.