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Definitions

descend

[dih-send] / dɪˈsɛnd /
VERB
move down, lower
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cascade collapse crash dip disembark dive go down penetrate plummet plunge settle sink slide stumble subside swoop trickle tumble
STRONG
coast crouch decline deplane detrain dismount dribble drop fall gravitate ground incline light pitch plop prolapse set slant slope slump stoop submerge toboggan topple trip weep
WEAK
cataract cave in fall prostrate get down get off lose balance slough off
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ascend go up grow increase leave rise
STRONG
even level mount pour straighten
VERB
condescend
Synonyms
STRONGEST
degenerate deteriorate
STRONG
concede patronize stoop
WEAK
abase oneself humble oneself lower oneself
Antonyms
STRONGEST
develop improve
WEAK
ascend go up increase rise
VERB
trace ancestry from; be passed or handed down
Synonyms
STRONGEST
proceed
STRONG
arise derive issue originate spring
Antonyms
WEAK
ascend go up increase rise

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As they descend, they also push and reshape surrounding material.

From Science Daily • Apr. 23, 2026

“I don’t think there’s any question that the state would descend into chaos,” said Phil Angelides, a Democrat and former state treasurer who lost to Schwarzenegger in the 2006 gubernatorial race.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

E-tabs descend from traditional paper pull-tabs, a game of chance where strips hide symbols.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

More than 20,000 pooches of varying size, shape and personality will descend on Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre for the four-day showcase, with one claiming the coveted "Best in Show" crown late Sunday.

From Barron's • Mar. 5, 2026

Now he would have to use his climbing rope to descend quickly to the road.

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques

Vocabulary lists containing descend

"The Great Gatsby," Chapter 1 Vocabulary

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Word Generation Social Studies - Ancient Civilizations of Egypt, Greece, Rome

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How Low Can You Go? Synonyms for "Downward"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!