What does subsided mean?
Subside means to become less intense, active, or noticeable. It is commonly used for storms, wind, rain, noise, pain, anger, and other conditions that gradually diminish. The word can also describe something physically settling, such as sediment sinking or a liquid level falling. In figurative use, “the situation subsided” suggests that tension or conflict eased over time. Subsided is the past tense and past participle of the verb; “subsiding” describes the gradual process. The word comes from Latin and originally carried the sense of sitting down or settling, which connects its physical and figurative meanings.
verbTo become less intense, severe, or active. It can refer to physical movement, sounds, weather, emotional feelings, or conflict gradually diminishing.
- To become less intense, severe, or active.
- To sink or settle down, especially as sediment settles or a liquid level falls.
- To become quieter or less noticeable, especially in reference to sound, weather, or activity.
"The storm gradually subsided, leaving the streets quiet and calm."
"The wind subsided before dawn."
"Her agitation subsided once she realized that no real danger existed."
From the Latin for “to sit down,” subside originally described something settling to a lower or calmer state.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does subsided come from?
The word comes from Latin subsidere, formed from sub- “under” and sidere “to sit,” literally meaning “to sit down” or “to settle.” In English it developed the meaning of sinking or settling down and later acquired the sense of becoming less intense. Related words include subsidy, subsidiary, and subsistent, all associated with the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How subsided is actually used
The word is formal but widely understood. It often suggests a gradual reduction in intensity or activity rather than an abrupt end.