Dwindled: meaning, definitions and examples

gradual decrease

To dwindle means to gradually decrease in size, amount, or strength. It often implies a slow and steady reduction over time, which contrasts sharply with a sudden loss. This word is often used to describe resources, populations, or even personal vitality. The term suggests that something is fading away or diminishing, resulting in a lessened state or condition.

decrease, diminish, lessen, shrink, wane

Examples of usage

• The water supply dwindled during the drought.

• His enthusiasm for the project dwindled as obstacles arose.

• Numbers of the species have dwindled due to habitat loss.