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Definition of recede

recede

/rɪˈsiːd/
re · cede
Adjective:recessive
•
Past Simple:receded
•
Past Participle:receded
•
Present Participle:receding
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recede Lexical Profile

recede Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To go or move back or further away from a previous position.

Example

"Once the heavy rains stopped, the floodwaters slowly began to recede from the coastal streets."

2

To gradually diminish in intensity, clarity, or value.

Example

"The painful memories of the accident eventually receded as the years passed."

3

To cease to grow at the front and temples (of a person's hairline).

Example

"He noticed that his hairline was starting to recede in his early thirties."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for recede

• Rhymes for recede

• Nearby Words

recast
recategorize
recce
recede
receding
receipt
receivable

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Latin recedere ('to go back, withdraw, or retire'), formed from re- ('back') and cedere ('to go').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Recede. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/recede
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