Fall

Definition

Fall refers to the act of moving downward, typically quickly and freely, without control. It can also refer to a decline in status, quality, or condition, or to the autumn season in American English.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɔːl/
• Respelling: fawl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɔːl/
• Respelling: fawl

Etymology

The word "fall" originates from Old English "feallan," meaning "to fall, fail, or die," and is derived from Proto-Germanic "*fallaną," meaning "to fall." It is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as Dutch "vallen" and German "fallen."

Derivatives

• Fallen (adjective)
• Falling (noun/adjective)
• Fallout (noun)
• Downfall (noun)
• Freefall (noun)

Synonyms

• Drop
• Decline
• Plunge

Antonyms

• Rise
• Increase
• Ascend

Usage

The term "fall" is widely used in both literal and figurative contexts. For example, "The leaves begin to fall in autumn," or "The company experienced a significant fall in revenue last quarter." It is also the American term for the autumn season.

Related Terms

• Descent: The act of moving downward.
• Autumn: The season between summer and winter, synonymous with "fall" in American English.
• Decline: A reduction or diminishment in quality or status.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To move downward freely under the influence of gravity: Describes an uncontrolled downward motion.
  • Example: "The book fell off the shelf."
• To decrease or diminish in value, quality, or status: Used in a metaphorical sense.
  • Example: "The stock prices fell sharply after the announcement."
• To occur or happen at a specific time: Often used with dates or seasons.
  • Example: "The holiday falls on a Monday this year."

Noun

• An act of moving downward: Refers to a physical descent.
  • Example: "His sudden fall startled everyone."
• A reduction in status, value, or power: Describes a decline or failure.
  • Example: "The empire's fall was marked by internal strife."
• The season of autumn (American English): Refers to the time of year between summer and winter.
  • Example: "The leaves turn vibrant colors in the fall."