noun
C2
Proficient
ebb
ehb
Ebb (noun) means the falling back of the tide as it moves away from the shore. Example: “We waited for the ebb before wading out to check the lobster pots.”
noun
1
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."
2
A gradual decline or weakening.
"His enthusiasm for the project was clearly on the ebb."
"Support for the policy reached its ebb just before the election."
verb
1
To flow back or recede, like a tide; to gradually weaken or fade.
"Her confidence ebbed as the interview went on."
"The tide ebbs and flows twice a day along this coast."
How to use ebb
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe pulling-back of a tide, or more generally a gradual weakening or fading of something.
Memory tip
Often paired with "flow" in the phrase "ebb and flow," meaning a natural rise and fall.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
ebb and flow
ebb tide
at a low ebb
ebbed away
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Word forms
- Plural
- ebbs
- Third person singular
- ebbs
- Past tense
- ebbed
- Comparative
- ebber
- Superlative
- ebbest
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We waited for the _____ before wading out to check the lobster pots.
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."
Related words
Rhymes for ebb
See all rhymes for 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.
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