ebb

¹ebb

noun \ˈeb\

Definition of EBB

1

: the reflux of the tide toward the sea

2

: a point or condition of decline <our spirits were at a low ebb>

Examples of EBB

1. Morale seems to have reached its lowest ebb.
2. <a surprising ebb in the quality of workmanship in goods coming from that country>

Origin of EBB

Middle English ebbe, from Old English ebba; akin to Middle Dutch ebbe ebb, Old English of from — more at of

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to EBB

Synonyms: decadence, declension, declination, degeneracy, degeneration, degradation, dégringolade, descent, deterioration, devolution, downfall, downgrade, decline, eclipse, fall

Antonyms: ascent, rise, upswing

Related Words: dark age, nadir, sunset; decay, rotting, spoiling; breakup, crumbling, decomposition, disintegration, dissolution; abasement, debasement; depreciation, lessening; decimation, demolishment, demolition, desolation, destruction, havoc, ruin, ruination; abatement, decrease, decrement, de-escalation, deflation, diminishment, diminution, dip, downslide, downtrend, downturn, drop, drop-off, falloff, loss, lowering, reduction, sag, shrinkage, slip, slump

Near Antonyms: advancement, development, evolution, growth; blossoming, flourishing, flowering; renewal, restoration, revitalization; heightening; accretion, accrual, addendum, addition, augmentation, boost, enhancement, gain, increase, increment, raise, supplement

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Rhymes with EBB

bleb, deb, neb, pleb, reb, Reb, web