decline, refuse, reject, repudiate, spurn mean to turn away by not accepting, receiving, or considering. decline often implies courteous refusal especially of offers or invitations.

DECLINE definition: 1. to gradually become less, worse, or lower: 2. to refuse: 3. If a noun, pronoun, or adjective…. Learn more.

DECLINE definition: to withhold or deny consent to do, enter into or upon, etc.; refuse. See examples of decline used in a sentence.

Mar 23, 2026 · Decline, refuse, forbear, refrain: Decline is gentler than refuse and carries a connotation that the non-acceptance is an acceptable or anticipated option (decline an invitation) or the result of …

12. a downward movement, as of prices or population: a decline in the stock market. 13. a deterioration, as in strength, power, or value. 14. progress downward or toward the close. 15. the later years or last …

a gradual deterioration of the physical powers, as in later life or in disease: After his seventieth birthday he went into a decline. progress downward or toward the close, as of the sun or the day.

Definition of decline verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Decline definition: To express polite refusal.

Decline refers to a gradual decrease or reduction in quantity, quality, value, strength, or power. It can also refer to the act of politely refusing or rejecting an offer or invitation.

If you decline something or decline to do something, you politely refuse to accept it or do it.