Downhill Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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downhill
[ˈdaʊnˌhɪl ]
Definitions
movement, direction
Downhill refers to movement toward the base of a slope or decline. It can describe physical motion, such as skidding down a hill, as well as metaphorical situations, such as a worsening condition.
Synonyms
declining, decreasing, sloping.
Examples of usage
- We went downhill skiing in the winter.
- The car slid downhill after the brakes failed.
- Their luck seemed to go downhill after the accident.
slope, terrain
Downhill describes a landscape that slopes downward. It often refers to hills or terrains that make it easier for gravity to pull objects or people downward.
Synonyms
declining, descending, sloped.
Examples of usage
- The downhill trail was perfect for beginners.
- He prefers the downhill courses over the flat ones.
- There are challenging downhill paths in the mountains.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Geography
- Many hills and mountains have slopes that can be steep, and these downhill paths can create beautiful landscapes.
- The term 'downhill' is often used to describe how water flows in rivers, as it moves from higher ground to lower areas.
Sports
- In skiing, 'downhill' refers to a specific race where skiers go down steep slopes at high speeds.
- Mountain biking trails often feature downhill sections designed for excitement and adventure.
Idioms and Expressions
- The phrase 'going downhill' can also mean that something is getting worse or declining, like when a project fails.
- In many cultures, people describe a situation as 'not going downhill' when they are trying to stay positive through challenges.
Physics
- Going downhill is related to the concept of gravity, which pulls objects toward the Earth, making them accelerate as they descend.
- The steeper the slope, the greater the pull of gravity will influence how fast something goes downhill.
Cultural References
- Downhill skiing has become a popular winter sport, with many countries hosting championship events.
- In movies and literature, downhill journeys often symbolize a character's fall from grace or hardship.
Origin of 'downhill'
The term 'downhill' originated in the early 17th century, with its components deriving from the words 'down' and 'hill.' The word 'down' can be traced back to Old English 'dūne,' meaning 'hill, slope,' while 'hill' comes from the Old English 'hyll,' denoting a raised area of land. Initially, 'downhill' was used in reference to both physical descents and metaphorical contexts. Over time, the word has become associated with various activities, including skiing and cycling, where a downhill path is seen as more exhilarating. Its use in figurative language to describe deterioration or a decline in circumstances has also gained acceptance, showcasing the flexibility of English in adapting terms for broader contexts.