Definition

The act of falling towards a large astronomical object due to its gravitational pull, often referring to gas moving rapidly towards a neutron star or black hole, or the area where water and runoff enter a drainage system.

Example

The infall of gas into the black hole created a bright flash of light.

Conversation

Did you see how quickly the water can infall into that storm drain during the rain?

Yeah, it was pretty impressive to watch all that water rush in!

I never realized how important those drains are to prevent flooding.

Absolutely, they really help manage the water flow during storms.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'infall' originates from the Latin 'infallere', which is formed from 'in-' (meaning not) and 'fallere' (meaning to deceive or fail). Thus, 'infall' refers to the concept of not failing or being incapable of error.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not failing' — 'in-' means not, and 'fallere' means to fail. This helps you remember that 'infall' refers to something that does not fail.

Visually Confused Words