Dwindle
mediumNegative toneDWIN-dul
verb
Definition
To diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength
Memory hook
DWINDLE: Your supplies DWINDLE down to nothing -- shrinking little by little.
Examples
“Their savings dwindled as unemployment continued.”
“Support for the policy dwindled over time.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Their savings ______ as unemployment continued.”
Show answer
dwindled
Categories
GRE Tip
Dwindle is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "diminish" or "decline" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "grow".
Related GRE Words
wane
To decrease in vigor, power, or extent; become weaker
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
ebb
To gradually decrease or decline; the movement of tide out to sea
subside
To become less intense, violent, or severe
degenerate
To decline or deteriorate physically, mentally, or morally
deteriorate
To become progressively worse
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