Ebb
mediumNeutral toneeb
verb
Definition
To gradually decrease or decline; the movement of tide out to sea
Memory hook
EBB: the tide EBBS (flows back) — to gradually decline or fade away in strength.
Examples
“Her enthusiasm for the project began to ebb after months of delays.”
“As the crisis ebbed, normal life slowly resumed.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Her enthusiasm for the project began to ______ after months of delays.”
Show answer
ebb
Categories
GRE Tip
Ebb is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "wane" or "recede" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "surge".
Related GRE Words
subside
To become less intense, violent, or severe
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
dwindle
To diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength
attenuate
To reduce the force, effect, or value of; to weaken
diminish
To make or become less
flag
(verb) To become tired or less enthusiastic; to decline in vigor
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