The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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ebb

verb

/ɛb/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of ebb

To gradually or steadily decline or decrease something, particularly in terms of intensity, volume, or strength.
"As the sun set, the tide began to ebb, slowly revealing the sandy shoreline."

Detailed meaning of ebb

It signifies a process of receding or diminishing, often used to describe the flow of a tide or the waning of a specific phenomenon. When something ebbs, it implies a gradual reduction or weakening of its force, vigor, or influence. It can also describe the diminishing of emotions or intensity, such as the ebbing of one's enthusiasm or energy. The term "ebb" often conveys a sense of change or transition, as well as the cyclical nature of various natural or abstract phenomena. Overall, "ebb" suggests a decline, subsidence, or fading away, indicating the gradual retreat or diminishing of something over time.

Example sentences containing ebb

1. After the peak of the storm, the wind and rain started to ebb, calming the atmosphere.
2. Her excitement started to ebb as the reality of the situation sank in.
3. The crowd's enthusiasm began to ebb after the third hour of the concert.
4. With each passing day, his energy seemed to ebb, leaving him feeling exhausted.
5. As the river flows downstream, its strength starts to ebb, creating a gentle current.
6. The pain in her leg gradually started to ebb as the medication took effect.

History and etymology of ebb

The verb 'ebb' has its etymological origins in Old English. It is derived from the Old English word 'ebban,' which meant 'to recede' or 'to flow back.' This Old English term is related to the Proto-Germanic word '*abjon,' signifying 'to flow away' or 'to recede.' The concept behind 'ebb' is closely connected to the natural movement of tides, where the sea gradually withdraws from the shore, resulting in a decrease in water level. Therefore, the etymology of 'ebb' conveys the idea of something gradually or steadily declining or decreasing, particularly in terms of intensity, volume, or strength, similar to the receding motion of water during the ebb tide. This term is widely used to describe various phenomena and situations where there is a noticeable and often cyclic reduction or diminishment over time.

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Further usage examples of ebb

1. After the heated argument, the tension between them began to ebb, and they could finally talk calmly.
2. As the winter season approached, the daylight hours started to ebb, and the nights grew longer.
3. With time, the intensity of their friendship began to ebb, and they drifted apart.
4. The influence of the political leader started to ebb as public support waned.
5. The fervor for the new product release started to ebb as customers found alternative options.
6. The tides began to ebb as the moon's influence waned.
7. Her enthusiasm for the project slowly began to ebb.
8. The cheers from the crowd started to ebb after the loss.
9. The sun's warmth began to ebb as evening approached.
10. His energy seemed to ebb as the day wore on.
11. The river's flow started to ebb during the dry season.
12. Our excitement began to ebb as the event got postponed.
13. The support for the policy began to ebb among lawmakers.
14. The pain in her leg finally started to ebb.
15. The storm's intensity began to ebb, bringing relief.
16. The music's volume began to ebb in the late hours.
17. Our patience with the long wait began to ebb away.
18. The influence of the dictator slowly began to ebb.
19. The enthusiasm for the product began to ebb over time.
20. The fervor of the protest seemed to ebb as the days passed.
21. His anger began to ebb as he realized the misunderstanding.
22. The traffic congestion started to ebb during the night.
23. The economic downturn caused job opportunities to ebb.
24. The wind's strength began to ebb, calming the storm.
25. Our hopes for a quick resolution began to ebb.