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descent

noun

/dɪˈsɛnt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of descent

The act or process of moving downward or declining from a higher position or level.
"The skier executed a flawless descent down the challenging slope."

Detailed meaning of descent

It can describe both physical movement and metaphorical or symbolic decline. In a physical sense, descent refers to the act of moving from a higher elevation to a lower one, such as descending a staircase or a mountain. Metaphorically, descent denotes a decline or deterioration in status, quality, or value. It can refer to the loss of social standing, reputation, or moral integrity. Descent can also denote a lineage or ancestry, indicating the direct or indirect genetic or cultural connection to one's ancestors or heritage. In this context, it pertains to the tracing of one's family tree or the understanding of one's historical background. Overall, 'descent' encompasses the notions of movement downward, decline, ancestry, and historical connection.

Example sentences containing descent

1. The hiker carefully navigated the steep descent down the mountain trail.
2. The airplane began its descent towards the destination airport.
3. The village celebrated its cultural descent with traditional dances and music.
4. The politician's scandal led to a rapid descent in popularity among voters.
5. The archeologist uncovered ancient artifacts that provided clues about the region's descent.
6. The astronaut experienced a thrilling descent back to Earth after a mission in space.

History and etymology of descent

The noun 'descent' has an etymology that reflects its concept of moving downward. It is derived from the Old French word 'descendre,' which means 'to descend' or 'to go down.' This word, in turn, comes from the Latin word 'descendere,' where 'de' means 'down from' and 'scendere' means 'to climb' or 'to go.' Therefore, the etymology of 'descent' conveys the idea of moving down or declining from a higher position or level, often implying a physical or metaphorical lowering. The word 'descent' has maintained its connection to the concept of moving downward, reflecting its Old French and Latin origins where 'descendre' and 'descendere' described the act of descending or going down from a higher point or status.

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Further usage examples of descent

1. The historian researched the noble family's noble descent to the medieval era.
2. The paraglider enjoyed the breathtaking views during their descent from the cliff.
3. The economic crisis resulted in a sharp descent of the country's currency value.
4. The bird's graceful descent into the water caught the attention of nearby onlookers.
5. The genealogist traced the individual's descent through generations of ancestors.
6. The descent down the steep mountain was both thrilling and challenging.
7. Economic descent can have far-reaching consequences for a nation.
8. The aircraft's rapid descent during turbulence alarmed passengers.
9. The astronaut's heart raced during the spaceship's descent into orbit.
10. The rapid descent of temperatures signaled the onset of winter.
11. She braced herself for the roller coaster's exhilarating descent.
12. The company's descent into bankruptcy shocked its employees.
13. The descent of the sun marked the end of another day.
14. The hikers began their treacherous descent into the canyon.
15. Social media can contribute to the descent into online addiction.
16. The descent of the elevator was smooth and uneventful.
17. Political leaders debated the country's descent into turmoil.
18. The sudden descent of darkness made navigation difficult.
19. The stock market's descent sent shockwaves through investors.
20. The gradual descent of the river carved a majestic canyon.
21. She felt a sense of relief during her descent from the mountaintop.
22. The descent of the plane brought passengers closer to their destination.
23. The family's descent into poverty motivated them to seek help.
24. The artist captured the beauty of the waterfall's descent on canvas.
25. The descent of the tide revealed hidden treasures on the beach.