Meaning & Definition of word "Ebb"
Ebb
/ɛb/
noun:
- 1. The flowing back of the tide as the water recedes.
- Example: We took a walk along the shore during the ebb.
- 2. A decline or reduction of something.
- Example: There was an ebb in his enthusiasm for the project.
verb:
- 1. To recede or diminish gradually; to decline.
- Example: The excitement of the crowd began to ebb as the evening progressed.
- 2. Refers to the falling of the tide.
- Example: As the tide began to ebb, the beach became more exposed.
Etymology
●Old English 'ebban' meaning 'to ebb, to decline'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
the ebb and flow:
The constant movement between two opposing states, often referring to tides or metaphorically to situations in life.
Related Words
flow:
The movement of liquid in a particular direction, often used in contrast to ebb.
tide:
The rise and fall of sea levels caused by gravitational forces exerted by the Moon and Sun.
Slang Meanings of ebb
Meaning: To lose energy or motivation.
● Example Sentence: After a long week, I really feel like I'm ebbing.
Meaning: To go downhill or decline in quality.
● Example Sentence: The party was great at first, but it started to ebb by midnight.