descend

To move downward from a higher place to a lower one.

• The hikers began to descend the steep trail before the sun set.

• Has the aircraft descended to a safer altitude yet?

To slope or lead gradually downward.

• A narrow staircase descends into the stone wine cellar.

• The pathway gently descended toward the edge of the lake.

To arrive suddenly and in large numbers, often causing disruption.

• Hundreds of tourists descend on the small coastal town every summer.

• Reporters descended upon the courthouse as soon as the verdict was announced.

To pass by inheritance or blood relation from ancestors to successors.

• The family estate will descend to the eldest daughter upon his death.

• Many of these rare heirlooms had descended through four generations.

To sink or deteriorate to a worse or less acceptable state.

• The peaceful protest began to descend into chaos after dusk.

• Their professional debate soon descended into petty personal insults.