English Reference
verb · noun

fading

v. · n.
US /ˈfeɪdɪŋ/ UK /fˈeɪdɪŋ/ fad·ing UK spelling fadings

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    v.becoming less bright, clear, or loud.

    v.the act of gradually losing brightness, loudness, or clarity of color.

    Simple

    The sunlight was fading as the storm clouds moved across the sky.

    In context

    The fading light of the late afternoon cast long, distorted shadows across the empty courtyard, signaling the end of the workday.

    dimmingpalingvanishing
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.losing power, health, or importance.

    v.the gradual diminishment of physical strength, health, or social influence.

    Simple

    The runner's energy was fading during the final mile of the race.

    In context

    Despite the initial excitement, public interest in the scandal was fading rapidly as newer headlines dominated the news cycle.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the slow process of something disappearing or getting weaker.

    n.the process or instance of gradual disappearance or loss of intensity.

    Simple

    The fading of the old traditions worried the village elders.

    In context

    The gradual fading of the fresco was attributed to centuries of exposure to humidity and direct sunlight.

    declinediminution
  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Archaic Music

    n.the repeated part or ending of an old song.

    n.the burden or refrain of a song; historically used to refer to the concluding part of a musical piece.

    Simple

    The old ballad ended with a melancholy fading that the audience hummed along to.

    In context

    Scholars of Elizabethan music often debate the specific rhythmic structure of the fading used in traditional Irish folk songs.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated