Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
ebb-and-flow
phrase
/ɛb ənd floʊ/
Definition
The recurrent movement of tides, specifically the process of water moving away from the shore (ebb) and returning (flow).
Examples
- The ebb-and-flow of the tide fascinated the beach-goers as they walked along the shore.
- In life, we often experience an ebb-and-flow of good days and bad days.
- His mood exhibited an ebb-and-flow, rising and falling with the events of the day.
Meaning
Ebb-and-flow refers to the alternating patterns or cycles of decrease and increase in various contexts, often used metaphorically to describe changing circumstances, emotions, or situations.
Synonyms
- rise and fall
- ups and downs
- cycle
