Fall: meaning, definitions and examples

As a verb, it means to descend freely by the force of gravity or to drop abruptly.

• She watched the raindrops fall from the sky.
• He could fall if he isn't careful.

This term is more frequently used in British English and can be used in more formal contexts.

• The weather becomes cooler in autumn.
• Autumn is a beautiful time of year in Europe.

When talking about something moving downward typically due to gravity; can also be used metaphorically to indicate a decline in various situations.

• The leaves fall from the trees in autumn.
• The company's profits continue to fall.

Typically describes an object that is let go and falls suddenly, or a sharp decrease in value or level; it often implies an uncontrolled action.

• Be careful not to drop the vase.
• There was a significant drop in temperature last night.

Used when referring to controlled, often gradual movement downwards, such as going down stairs or a slope.

• The plane began to descend towards the airport.
• He descended the staircase carefully.