recede
UK: rɪˈsiːd | US: rɪˈsiːd
vi. to move back or away from a previous position
vi. to become gradually weaker or smaller
vi. (of hair) to stop growing at the forehead, creating a bald area
The word recede originates from Latin recedere (re- "back" + cedere "to go"). It entered English in the 15th century, initially describing physical retreat (e.g., tides, armies) and later abstract withdrawal (e.g., hairlines, influence). The morphemes preserve their original Latin logic: "going back" → "withdrawing."
The floodwaters began to recede after days of heavy rain.
As he aged, his hairline started to recede noticeably.
The sound of the train receded into the distance.
Economic pressures caused public support for the policy to recede.
Glaciers are receding due to climate change.