dwindling

UK: ˈdwɪndlɪŋ | US: ˈdwɪndlɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. gradually becoming smaller or less

  2. v. (present participle of dwindle) to decrease slowly in size, amount, or strength

Structure
dwindle <to fade away>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "dwindle" originated in the late 16th century, likely derived from the Old English dwīnan (to waste away) or related to Middle Low German dwīnen (to vanish). The suffix -ing forms the present participle, indicating an ongoing action. The morpheme dwindle itself suggests a gradual decline, often with a sense of weakening or disappearing over time.

Examples

  1. The dwindling supplies forced the team to ration food carefully.

  2. Her interest in the project has been dwindling over the past months.

  3. The once-busy town now has a dwindling population.

  4. Dwindling daylight signaled the approach of winter.

  5. Efforts to save the species are failing as its habitat keeps dwindling.