English Reference
verb · noun

slipping

v. · n.
US /ˈsɫɪpɪŋ/ UK /slˈɪpɪŋ/ slip·ping

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.getting worse or falling below a usual standard.

    v.undergoing a gradual reduction in quality, efficiency, or intensity.

    Simple

    The teacher noticed that the student's grades were slipping during the final term.

    In context

    Management expressed concern that the factory's safety standards were slipping, leading to an increase in minor workplace accidents.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.moving somewhere quickly or secretly so people do not notice you.

    v.moving with a smooth, quiet, or stealthy motion to avoid detection or delay.

    Simple

    She tried slipping out of the back door before the party ended.

    In context

    The spy succeeded in slipping through the security checkpoint by blending in with a group of arriving tourists.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the physical movement of sliding or losing grip.

    n.the action or instance of losing one's footing or the sudden movement of an object out of its proper position.

    Simple

    The constant slipping of the rug on the wooden floor became very annoying.

    In context

    The engineer explained that the mechanical failure was caused by the repeated slipping of the drive belt under high tension.

Tears gather in her eyes before slipping down her face.

Al Jazeera· 14 Aug 2026

The moon mission had faced repeated delays , slipping back from a planned February launch .

Smithsonian Magazine· 10 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated