Definition of the word die down

The phrase "die down" is a figurative expression that refers to a decrease or lessening of intensity or activity. It originated from the literal sense of the word "die," which means to cease living or functioning. In the late 18th century, "die down" first appeared in print in the context of a fire or storm. It was used to describe how flames or winds would eventually subside and lose their strength through natural causes. For example, in an 1791 newspaper article, the writers stated, "The fire which began at midnight yesterday, in Union Street, Tottenham Court Road, has already begun to die down, and we may hope that it will be entirely extinguished by this morning." As the phrase gained popularity, it was adapted to describe other things beyond fire and storms, such as crowds, emotions, or noise. The word "die" changed its meaning to indicate a slow and gradual decrease in intensity rather than an abrupt ending or cessation. In summary, the origin of the phrase "die down" lies in the figurative use of the word "die" to convey the idea of a gradual lessening of intensity, from its literal sense of ceasing to live or function.