ebb
EB
/ɛb/
(Of tidewater) move away from the coast; recede; (of an emotion or quality) gradually lessen or reduce.
Implies a natural, rhythmic decline, like the tide. It often suggests that the thing might come back later (flow).
The story behind the word. A purely Germanic word, 'ebba' has been in English since the beginning. It has always described the movement of the sea, and its metaphorical use for 'fading strength' dates back to the time of Shakespeare.
Word relationships
- recede: 'Recede' is more general for moving away; 'ebb' is specifically tide-like.
- wane: 'Wane' is specifically for the moon or power/influence.
- flow: The incoming of the tide.
- surge: A sudden powerful forward or upward movement.
Commonly confused with
- subside: 'Subside' means to sink to a lower level or become less intense; 'ebb' means to flow away.
Word family
- ebbing (adjective): Gradually lessening.
Collocations
- ebb and flow
- at a low ebb
- tide begins to ebb
Idioms & expressions
- ebb and flow
Example sentences
- "We waited for the tide to ebb before searching the rock pools for crabs." Describing the sea.
- "As the sun went down, his energy began to ebb, and he finally fell asleep." Metaphorical use for energy.
Memory hook
Ebb is like the 'End' of the 'Beach'—the water is leaving the beach. Ebb = Exit the beach.
When not to use
Don't use it for permanent destruction or rot; use it for things that fluctuate or slowly drain away.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'at a low ebb' means to be in a state of weakness or depression, like the sea at its lowest point.
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