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free fall

noun
|Updated on: 21 Jun 2018

Definition of free fall

1 : the condition of unrestrained motion in a gravitational field; also : such motion
2 a : the part of a parachute jump before the parachute opens
b : a rapid and continuing drop or decline
  • a free fall in stock prices
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free-fall

play \ˈfrē-ˌfȯl\ intransitive verb

See free fall defined for English-language learners

Examples of free fall in a Sentence

  1. Sales were in free fall.

Recent Examples of free fall from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'free fall.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of free fall

1851

in the meaning defined at sense 2

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FREE FALL Defined for English Language Learners

free fall

noun

Definition of free fall for English Language Learners

  • : the state or condition of falling through the air toward the ground

  • : the condition of quickly becoming lower, less, or fewer

  • : a fast or continuing drop

Medical Dictionary

free fall

noun \ -ˌfȯl \

medical Definition of free fall

: the condition of unrestrained motion in a gravitational field; also : such motion

Learn More about free fall

  1. Nglish: Translation of free fall for Spanish speakers

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