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.