Subside
mediumNeutral tonesub-SYD
verb
Definition
To become less intense, violent, or severe
Memory hook
SUB-SIDE: settling DOWN underneath — intensity decreasing and calming.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The storm began to subside after midnight.”
“Her anger gradually subsided.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The storm began to ______ after midnight.”
Show answer
subside
Categories
GRE Tip
Subside is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "abate" or "diminish" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "intensify".
Related GRE Words
ebb
To gradually decrease or decline; the movement of tide out to sea
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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