Fade: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe a gradual decrease in brightness, color, or volume. Often describes things like memories, sounds, or visual appearances.

• The colors of the painting began to fade over time.
• Her laughter faded into the background as I walked away.

Used to describe something that is no longer visible or that ceases to exist. Typically applied to objects, people, or phenomena.

• The magician made the rabbit disappear.
• As I looked away, the sun seemed to disappear behind the clouds.

Describes a sudden and complete disappearance, often with a dramatic or mysterious implication. Can be applied to both physical and abstract entities.

• The ghost seemed to vanish into thin air.
• All my fears vanished when I saw him.

Used to describe a reduction in size, importance, or intensity. Frequently applied to abstract or quantifiable things such as hopes, fears, or resources.

• His influence in the company began to diminish after the scandal.
• The supplies started to diminish as the expedition continued.

fade is often used when something gradually loses its color, brightness, or strength over time. It can be used for physical objects or abstract concepts like memories.

• The colors of the old photograph have started to fade.
• Her enthusiasm for the project began to fade.

dim is used to describe lights or visual brightness becoming less bright. It can also refer to lessening hopes or chances.

• She dimmed the lights to create a more romantic atmosphere.
• As the sun set, the room began to dim.

weaken is used when something loses its strength or becomes less powerful. It can be applied to physical strength, influence, or structures.

• The bridge began to weaken after years of wear and tear.
• His argument weakened as the debate progressed.

dull can describe something that lacks brightness, sharpness, or excitement. It can refer to colors, lights, or even things like events and personalities. Can have a mildly negative connotation.

• The room looked dull with its muted colors.
• The lecture was incredibly dull and hard to follow.

Used when something gradually becomes less visible or less distinct. Commonly used in photography, graphics, and audio to describe the gradual disappearance of an element.

• The image began to fade until it was completely gone
• His voice started to fade as he walked away

A broad term that describes the process of moving from one state or condition to another. Used in various fields such as film, writing, design, and life changes.

• The transition from childhood to adulthood can be challenging
• The film's transitions between scenes were well-executed

Refers to the process of mixing two or more elements smoothly and evenly. Often used in art, cooking, and audio mixing where components are combined to form a unified whole.

• The artist blended several colors to create a beautiful sunset
• The DJ blended different tracks seamlessly

Specific to audio or video editing, it describes the gradual transition from one track or scene to another by fading out the first track or scene while simultaneously fading in the next.

• The crossfade between the two songs was so smooth that the audience didn't notice the change
• In the movie, the director used a crossfade to transition between scenes