free fall

noun

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
free-fall intransitive verb

Examples of free fall in a Sentence

Sales were in free fall.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
But the can hits a switch on the wall which sets a running metal fan in free fall on top of him. William Vaillancourt, Rolling Stone, 21 Dec. 2025 But behind that image of success and access, Kapoor’s emergent empire was in free fall. Sarah Blaskey, Miami Herald, 16 Dec. 2025 The Chiefs have been in free fall of late, losing four of five with their only win involving a double-digit fourth-quarter comeback that turned into an overtime win. Scott Chasen, Kansas City Star, 14 Dec. 2025 The action knocked the camera operator into a free fall, although the operator did land safely with only minor injury, according to the report. Mike Snider, USA Today, 13 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for free fall

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of free fall was in 1851

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Free fall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20fall. Accessed 22 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

free-fall

noun
ˈfrē-ˈfȯl
: a condition of falling freely (as before opening one's parachute)

Medical Definition

free fall

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

More from Merriam-Webster on free fall

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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