recede

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb recede contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of recede are back, retract, and retreat. While all these words mean "to move backward," recede implies a gradual withdrawing from a forward or high fixed point in time or space.

the flood waters gradually receded

In what contexts can back take the place of recede?

The meanings of back and recede largely overlap; however, back is used with up, down, out, or off to refer to any retrograde motion.

backed off on the throttle

When could retract be used to replace recede?

In some situations, the words retract and recede are roughly equivalent. However, retract implies drawing back from an extended position.

a cat retracting its claws

When would retreat be a good substitute for recede?

While the synonyms retreat and recede are close in meaning, retreat implies withdrawal from a point or position reached.

retreating soldiers

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of recede The firestorm recedes By early May, the outbreak had finally run out of unvaccinated children to infect. Brandy Zadrozny, NBC news, 4 June 2025 Here’s what might (and definitely won’t) save you from your dad’s receding hairline. Jenna Ryu, SELF, 23 May 2025 While the brand quickly became synonymous with the 1990s UK music scene—having Liam Gallagher sport them on-stage certainly didn’t hurt—the aughts saw the business’s fortunes recede and its manufacturing go overseas. Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 2 June 2025 But as more schools crack down, the market should mature, the software improve and the temptation to cheat recede. Editorial, Boston Herald, 2 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for recede
Recent Examples of Synonyms for recede
Verb
  • Once the killing subsided, a desperate search began to find a way to prevent such a catastrophe from happening again.
    Oona A. Hathaway, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025
  • The program’s vehicles were rentals and will be returned to vendors as the program subsides.
    Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 24 June 2025
Verb
  • In the Trump era, many have speculated about whether or to what degree the United States will withdraw from its leading role in the world.
    KORI SCHAKE, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025
  • Hall, on the other hand, finished just six strokes behind the champion, despite nearly withdrawing 48 hours earlier.
    Devlina Sarkar, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 June 2025
Verb
  • Flagg won’t be the only rookie cashing in: Every first-round selection in this year’s draft is projected to earn a seven-figure salary, although each slot has a diminishing value.
    Danielle Chemtob, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
  • Keep clear of puddles - Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control Give ample space to large vehicles - Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 26 June 2025
Verb
  • While Shell has retreated from some of its low-carbon ventures, the company remains committed to EVs and has more than 75,000 charge points across the world.
    Preston Fore, Fortune, 17 June 2025
  • The rally came as oil prices retreated from recent highs amid reports that Iran seeks to de-escalate tensions with Israel.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025
Verb
  • The top three contributors to hydroplaning are: Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases.
    KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 25 June 2025
  • The three main causes of hydroplaning are: Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 25 June 2025
Verb
  • These days, Voorhees continues to attend fan conventions and events, and enjoys his status as a local celebrity on Martha's Vineyard, where he's currently retired.
    Randall Colburn, EW.com, 20 June 2025
  • The Sox were retired in order in the eighth and ninth, dropping to 4-20 in one-run games.
    LaMond Pope, Chicago Tribune, 20 June 2025
Verb
  • The little girl doesn’t understand why her mother vanished and had hoped her mother would be at her graduation, said Camerino Gomez, Pineda’s fiance.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 23 June 2025
  • Record heatwaves, vanishing ice and billion-dollar disasters are reshaping how risk is modeled and priced.
    Felicia Jackson, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
Verb
  • Monthly spending has also fallen by almost $20 year-over-year.
    Jon Kirchner, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • However, that strategy could fall flat if Cuomo keeps his campaign alive.
    Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 27 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Recede.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/recede. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

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