decline meaning and definition

DECLINE noun

Definition of decline (noun)

1. change toward something smaller or lower
   • synonyms: diminution
2. a condition inferior to an earlier condition; a gradual falling off from a better state
   • synonyms: declination
   • antonym: improvement
3. a gradual decrease; as of stored charge or current
   • synonyms: decay
4. a downward slope or bend
   • synonyms: declension, declination, declivity, descent, downslope, fall
   • antonym: acclivity

DECLINE verb

Definition of decline (verb)

1. grow worse
   • "Conditions in the slum worsened"
   • synonyms: worsen
   • antonym: ameliorate
2. refuse to accept
   • "He refused my offer of hospitality"
   • synonyms: pass up, refuse, reject, turn down
   • antonym: accept
3. show unwillingness towards
   • "he declined to join the group on a hike"
   • synonyms: refuse
   • antonym: accept
4. grow smaller
   • "Interest in the project waned"
   • synonyms: go down, wane
5. go down
   • "The roof declines here"
6. go down in value
   • "the stock market corrected"; "prices slumped"
   • synonyms: correct, slump
7. inflect for number, gender, case, etc.
   • "in many languages, speakers decline nouns, pronouns, and adjectives"