# tumbling

/ˈtəmbəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /tˈʌmblɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tumbling
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

falling down quickly and without control. You use this to describe something that is rolling or dropping in a messy way.

For teachers: falling or rolling in a sudden, uncontrolled, or disorderly manner. Often used to describe physical objects, financial values, or acrobatic movements.

## Examples

- The tumbling rocks blocked the mountain road.
- Investors watched the tumbling stock prices with growing concern as the market opened on Monday morning.
- A tumbling stream of clear water cascaded over the jagged rocks, creating a mist that cooled the air in the narrow canyon below.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a participial adjective before a noun to describe a state of continuous or sudden descent.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.