Receding

The act of moving back or further away, often from a previous position. It implies a gradual withdrawal or decrease, whether physically, metaphorically, or emotionally. This can relate to a hairline, floodwaters, a coastline, or even a specific idea or feeling. It suggests a process that unfolds over time, leaving behind an empty space or diminished presence.

Receding meaning with examples

• The hairline was receding, becoming more pronounced with each passing year. He would comb the thinning hair back and forth, desperately trying to conceal what he was losing. The image that stared back at him in the mirror always made him sad, as if he was receding from his younger self. He often wondered if this receding hair was the first sign of his own mortality, which constantly caused him much sadness.
• As the tide receded, it left behind a shimmering expanse of wet sand and exposed tide pools. The children chased after the withdrawing waves, laughing as they dipped their toes in the water's edge. Shells, previously hidden, now glittered in the sun. The feeling of watching the ocean recede after a hot summer day was a calming one, and always a sight to behold for the vacationers.
• After the scandal, public interest in the politician's campaign was visibly receding. Fewer people attended rallies, donations dwindled, and the media coverage shifted towards the other candidates. This sudden loss of public appeal and support was a heavy burden, and the politician could no longer afford to stay in office any longer. His staff watched sadly as the dreams of the man, began to slip away.
• The initial excitement over the new project was slowly receding as the challenges mounted. The team's enthusiasm waned, and their doubts began to surface. Deadlines were missed, and funding was cut. They had a brief moment to relish, before their dreams began receding, as did their careers. Their hopes diminished as they began accepting their losses and failure.