Descent

Definition

Descent refers to the action of moving downward, dropping, or falling. It can also relate to one's lineage or ancestry, as well as a decline in quality, position, or moral state.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈsɛnt/
• Respelling: dih-SENT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈsɛnt/
• Respelling: dih-SENT

The pronunciation of "descent" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "descent" originates from the Old French word "descente," meaning "a climb down." It comes from the Latin "descendere," meaning "to go down." The term entered Middle English in the late 14th century and evolved to refer to both physical and figurative downward movement or decline, as well as ancestral lineage.

Derivatives

• Descend (verb)
• Descending (adjective)
• Descendant (noun)
• Ascend (antonym, verb)
• Descention (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Fall
• Decline
• Drop

Antonyms

• Ascent
• Rise
• Climb

Usage

The word "descent" is used in various contexts to describe physical movement downward, such as "The airplane began its descent toward the runway." It is also used figuratively to describe a decline in quality, position, or status: "His descent into poverty was swift." Additionally, "descent" can refer to a person's lineage: "He traced his descent back to the early settlers."

Related Terms

• Descent Path: The trajectory or route taken during a downward movement.
• Lineage: Direct descent from an ancestor, family line, or heritage.
• Decline: A gradual and continuous loss of strength, numbers, or quality.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Downward movement: Refers to the act of moving from a higher to a lower position.
  • Example: "The hiker carefully navigated the steep descent down the mountain."
• Lineage or ancestry: Refers to a person's heritage or family lineage.
  • Example: "He is of French descent, with ancestors who emigrated in the 18th century."
• A decline or deterioration in quality, status, or position: Refers to a metaphorical or actual drop in standard, rank, or moral state.
  • Example: "The company’s descent into bankruptcy was unexpected."