1. Movement Downwards: This is the most basic meaning of descent. It refers to the act of moving down, usually in a vertical direction.
* Examples:
* The airplane began its descent towards the runway.
* The hikers descended the steep mountain trail.
* The price of the stock has been on a steady descent.
2. Lineage or Ancestry: This meaning refers to a person's family line, especially their ancestors.
* Examples:
* He is of noble descent.
* Her family tree traces its descent back to the early settlers.
* They are descended from a long line of farmers.
3. Decline or Fall: This meaning implies a decrease in quality, value, or importance.
* Examples:
* The nation witnessed a steep descent into economic chaos.
* His health went into a rapid descent after the accident.
* The company's profits have been on a steady descent for the past few years.
4. Inclination: This meaning refers to a slope or a downward slant.
* Examples:
* The road had a gentle descent.
* The roof had a steep descent.
5. Ascent: This meaning is sometimes used in a metaphorical sense to refer to an upward climb or a journey towards something greater. This meaning is less common than the others.
* Examples:
* He spoke of the descent from the summit of his career. (This implies a decline after a peak)
It's important to consider the context when interpreting the meaning of "descent" to avoid confusion.