descend

B2 · Upper Intermediate Biology

v. to come from a particular ancestor or family in the past.

v. to have a specific person or group as an ancestor. Usually used in the passive form 'be descended from'.

“Many people in this village are descended from the original settlers.”

“Genetic evidence suggests that the modern species is descended from a small population that survived the last ice age.”

C1 · Advanced Formal

v. to change into a worse or less organized state.

v. to pass into a lower or less desirable state or condition, often implying a loss of control or dignity.

“The peaceful protest quickly descended into a violent riot.”

“The meeting descended into chaos as several board members began shouting over one another regarding the budget cuts.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to point or lead downwards.

v. to extend or slope in a downward direction.

“The road descends sharply toward the coast after you pass the forest.”

“The garden is arranged in terraces that descend toward the riverbank, providing a panoramic view of the valley.”

C1 · Advanced Literary

v. to arrive suddenly and in large numbers, often when not wanted.

v. to make a sudden attack or visit, typically in large numbers. Often implies an overwhelming or intrusive arrival.

“Hundreds of reporters descended on the small town after the news broke.”

“As soon as the celebrity stepped out of the car, a swarm of photographers descended upon her, flashing their cameras incessantly.”