Dwindling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dwindling

[หˆdwษชndlษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

population

Diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength.

Synonyms

decline, decrease, diminish, shrink.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dwindling

Use this word when something is gradually becoming smaller or less over time, often implying a concern about the reduction.

  • The dwindling number of bees is alarming environmentalists
  • Their savings were dwindling as the months went by
decrease

Use this in both formal and informal settings to talk about a reduction in size, amount, or extent.

  • The temperature will decrease after sunset
  • There was a decrease in the number of tourists this year
decline

This word is suitable when something is decreasing in quality, importance, or quantity. It often suggests a steady, sometimes inevitable downward trend.

  • The company faced a decline in sales over the last quarter
  • There has been a noticeable decline in his health
shrink

This word works well when talking about something physically getting smaller or when describing a reduction in scope or extent, often in a more tangible sense.

  • The sweater will shrink if you wash it in hot water
  • The population of the town is beginning to shrink due to economic hardships
diminish

Best used when something lessens in intensity, importance or size, sometimes implying that it is being minimized or devalued.

  • Her enthusiasm began to diminish after the first week
  • The scandal has not diminished his popularity

Examples of usage

  • The population of the endangered species is dwindling due to habitat destruction.
  • The amount of available resources is dwindling rapidly.
  • The support for the project is dwindling as more issues arise.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'dwindling'

The word 'dwindling' originated from the Middle English word 'dwindlen', which is believed to have been influenced by the Old Norse word 'dvรญna', meaning to pine away. The concept of gradual decrease or shrinkage has been associated with this word since the 16th century, reflecting the idea of something diminishing in size, amount, or strength over time.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,092, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.