Drop

Definition

Drop can function as a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a small quantity of liquid that forms a spherical shape, or a sudden descent or decrease. As a verb, it means to let something fall, to decrease in level or intensity, or to abandon or stop something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /drɑp/
• Respelling: DROP

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /drɒp/
• Respelling: DROP

Etymology

The word "drop" originates from the Old English "droppian," meaning "to fall in small portions," derived from "dropa" (a drop). The term has Germanic roots and retained its form and meaning through Middle English into modern usage.

Derivatives

• Dropped (verb/adjective)
• Dropping (noun/verb)
• Dropout (noun)
• Droplet (noun)
• Raindrop (noun)

Synonyms

• Fall
• Decline
• Reduce

Antonyms

• Raise
• Increase
• Lift

Usage

The term "drop" is used widely across contexts. As a verb, it may describe letting go of an object or experiencing a decrease, as in "The temperature dropped overnight." As a noun, it can refer to a liquid sphere, like "a drop of water," or to a decline, as in "a sudden drop in prices."

Related Terms

• Fall: A descent or decrease in level or amount.
• Decline: A decrease in quantity, quality, or intensity.
• Descent: A movement or transition downward.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A small sphere of liquid: Refers to a small quantity of liquid that assumes a spherical shape due to surface tension.
  • Example: "He added a drop of lemon juice to his tea."
• A sudden or steep decline: Describes a decrease in level, quantity, or intensity.
  • Example: "There was a significant drop in temperature overnight."

Verb

• To let something fall: Describes the act of allowing an object to descend freely due to gravity.
  • Example: "She accidentally dropped her keys."
• To decrease or reduce in level or intensity: Indicates a downward adjustment or lessening in degree.
  • Example: "The company dropped its prices to attract more customers."
• To stop or abandon something: Refers to the act of discontinuing or letting go of an activity or plan.
  • Example: "He decided to drop the subject."