ebb
7 synonyms and 3 antonyms for ebb, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The falling back of the tide as it moves away from the shore.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
The falling back of the tide as it moves away from the shore.
“We waited for the ebb before wading out to check the lobster pots.”
Opposites
2. verb
To flow back or recede, like a tide; to gradually weaken or fade.
“Her confidence ebbed as the interview went on.”
Opposites
How to use ebb
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
ebb and flow
ebb tide
at a low ebb
ebbed away
Etymology
From Old English ebba, referring to the outgoing tide — ultimately from a Germanic root meaning "off" or "away," the same idea behind the modern word "of."
Full origin of ebb →Frequently asked questions
What does “ebb” mean?
The word “ebb” means the falling back of the tide as it moves away from the shore. In plain terms, the pulling-back of a tide, or more generally a gradual weakening or fading of something.
How do you pronounce “ebb”?
“Ebb” is pronounced ehb (/ɛb/ in IPA).
How do you use “ebb” in a sentence?
Here is “ebb” used in a sentence: “We waited for the ebb before wading out to check the lobster pots.”
What is the opposite of “ebb”?
The opposite of “ebb” — its antonyms — are flood and flow.
What part of speech is “ebb”?
Depending on how it is used, “ebb” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “ebb” come from?
The word “ebb” comes from Old English. From Old English ebba, referring to the outgoing tide — ultimately from a Germanic root meaning "off" or "away," the same idea behind the modern word "of.".
How many meanings does “ebb” have?
“Ebb” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the falling back of the tide as it moves away from the shore.
