subside
v.v. to become less strong or active. You use this when something like a storm, a feeling, or a situation is getting better or ending.
v. to become less intense, severe, or widespread. Often describes the gradual reduction of physical symptoms, weather conditions, or social tensions.
The rain began to subside after several hours.
The swelling in his ankle started to subside once he took the prescribed medication.
As the initial panic of the crowd began to subside, a sense of quiet determination took hold, allowing the emergency services to reach the injured safely.
From Latin subsīdō (“I settle, subside”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Last updated May 19, 2026