dwindling
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈdwɪndlɪŋ/
KK: /ˈdwin(d)lɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is becoming smaller or less in amount, size, or strength over time.
Example
The dwindling resources made it difficult for the community to thrive.
Conversation
Have you noticed how our favorite coffee shop has been dwindling in customers lately?
Yeah, I saw that too. It’s kind of sad to see it struggling.
I wonder if it's because of all the new places opening up nearby.
That could be it; competition is tough, and their business might be dwindling because of it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
declining
diminishing
waning
Antonyms
growing
increasing
expanding
verb
Definition
To gradually become smaller or less in amount, size, or strength.
Example
The number of visitors to the park has been dwindling over the years.
Tense Forms
Past: dwindled
Past Participle: dwindled
Conversation
Have you noticed how our group of friends is dwindling lately?
Yeah, it seems like some people are busy with their own lives.
I hope we can get everyone together again before it gets any worse.
Root Explanation
Dwindling → It originates from the Old English 'dwindan' (meaning to waste away or diminish). The word describes the process of gradually decreasing or becoming smaller.
Memory Tip
Imagine something that is 'wasting away' or 'diminishing' over time — that's what dwindling means.
Visually Confused Words
windling
undwindling
swindling
windlin
winding
windring
wildling
twinling