slump

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Science Technical

n. a type of landslide where a large piece of earth or rock moves a short distance down a hill.

n. a form of mass wasting where a coherent mass of material moves down a slope along a curved surface.

“Heavy rains caused a slump on the hillside, blocking the road with mud.”

“The geological survey identified a massive slump along the coastal cliffs, warning that further erosion could destabilize the lighthouse foundation.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to fall heavily or to decrease suddenly in value.

v. to undergo a sudden or significant decrease in price, value, or amount; to collapse heavily.

“Profits slumped by twenty percent after the new tax was introduced.”

“Share prices slumped following the CEO's unexpected resignation, wiping millions off the company's market valuation within hours.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to sit or stand with your shoulders down because you are tired or bored.

v. to assume a drooping or slouching posture; to sit or move in a listless manner.

“Don't slump in your chair; it is bad for your back.”

“The exhausted marathon runner slumped against the barrier, gasping for air as volunteers rushed to offer assistance.”