Fade

Definition

Fade generally refers to the act of gradually disappearing or losing brightness, strength, or sound.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /feɪd/
• Respelling: FAYD (with "FAYD" as in "laid")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /feɪd/
• Respelling: FAYD (with "FAYD" as in "laid")

In both dialects, "fade" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FAYD."

Etymology

The word "fade" comes from the Old French word "fader," meaning "to become weak or to lose strength," which itself derives from the Latin word "fatuus," meaning "foolish" or "insipid." The term entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, originally referring to a loss of freshness or vitality, especially in relation to color or light.

Derivatives

• Fading (verb, present participle)
• Faded (adjective)
• Fader (noun, in audio mixing)
• Fade-out (noun)
• Unfaded (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Diminish
• Vanish
• Dwindle

Antonyms

• Brighten
• Appear
• Intensify

Usage

"Fade" is commonly used to describe the process by which something loses its brightness, color, or distinctness over time. It is often applied in contexts involving physical objects, such as fabric or light, as well as abstract concepts like memory or influence.

Related Terms

• Dissolve: In film, a slow transition between two scenes or images.
• Ebb: To recede, fall away, or diminish.
• Evanesce: To disappear gradually, vanish, or fade away.

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To Become Less Intense: Refers to the process by which something gradually loses its strength, brightness, or vividness.
  • Example: The colors of the old photograph have faded over time.

• To Disappear Gradually: Describes the process of something slowly vanishing or becoming less distinct.
  • Example: The sound of the music faded as they walked away from the concert.

• To Diminish in Influence or Popularity: Refers to the gradual decline of something in terms of relevance, importance, or popularity.
  • Example: As new technologies emerged, the popularity of the old gadget faded.

• To Weaken or Decline: Indicates a decrease in strength, vitality, or effectiveness.
  • Example: His memory of the event faded as the years passed.

Noun

• Gradual Diminishment: The process or result of something fading or losing strength, brightness, or intensity.
  • Example: The movie ended with a slow fade to black.