Descending: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about moving downwards, either physically or metaphorically, such as going down stairs or in a hierarchy.

• She was descending the staircase.
• The airplane is descending towards the runway.
• The data shows a descending trend in sales.

Refers to moving downward, often due to gravity. It can also describe a decrease in numbers, levels, or quality, sometimes with a sense of an uncontrollable process.

• The leaves are falling from the trees.
• Stock prices are falling sharply.
• Attendance at the event is falling every year.

Used to talk about something falling or becoming lower in a very literal or quick way. It can also refer to a decrease in numbers or levels.

• The temperature is dropping rapidly.
• I accidentally dropped my phone on the floor.
• Sales have been dropping due to the economic downturn.

Typically used to describe bringing something down to a lower position or reducing a certain measure like volume, price, or height.

• She is lowering the blinds.
• The company is lowering its prices to attract customers.
• He spoke in a lowered voice.

Often refers to a reduction in quantity, quality, or importance over time. It can have a slightly formal or negative connotation.

• The population of the city is declining.
• His health has been declining for several years.
• There is a declining interest in printed newspapers.

Used in a neutral context to describe something moving downwards, often in a controlled or gradual manner.

• The airplane is descending towards the runway
• The hikers are descending the mountain trail

General use for something moving downwards, may imply a lack of control or a natural process.

• Leaves are falling from the trees
• The stock market has been falling all week

Often used to describe a quick or unexpected decrease, can imply a lack of control.

• The temperatures are dropping rapidly
• She accidentally dropped the vase on the floor

Typically used when something is gradually going downwards, often into a liquid. Can imply a sense of hopelessness or negativity.

• The ship is sinking after hitting the iceberg
• Their spirits were sinking as the situation grew worse

Used to describe a very rapid or sudden drop, often dramatic or uncontrolled. Usually has a negative connotation.

• The car plunged off the bridge
• The company's profits are plunging this quarter