Recede

/rɪˈsiːd/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To move back or withdraw.
As the tide began to recede, the beach was left bare.
To diminish or decrease in amount or intensity.
His fear started to recede as he gained more experience.
To retreat or go away.
The storm clouds finally began to recede, revealing a clear sky.
To slope backward or downwards.
The land recedes gently towards the river.

Etymology

From Latin 'recedere', from 're-' meaning 'back' + 'cedere' meaning 'to go'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

recede into the background:
to become less noticeable or important.
recede from view:
to move out of sight.
recede from a position:
to retreat or give up a stance.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

to back off from something serious.
He decided to recede from the argument when he realized he was wrong.
to give up on a relationship.
After constant fights, she decided to recede from the relationship.