free fall

noun

Synonyms of free fallnext
1
: the condition of unrestrained motion in a gravitational field
also : such motion
2
a
: the part of a parachute jump before the parachute opens
b
: a rapid and continuing drop or decline
a free fall in stock prices
free-fall
ˈfrē-ˌfȯl How to pronounce free fall (audio)
intransitive verb

Examples of free fall in a Sentence

Sales were in free fall.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When Grainge was finally announced as UMG’s next CEO in 2010, taking the reins from Doug Morris, the music industry was in a free fall. — Ethan Millman, HollywoodReporter, 8 Oct. 2026 The Gators look to move past their collapse at Missouri, returning to the Swamp to face a South Carolina program in free fall. — Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026 Iran’s currency is getting obliterated With Iran’s economy in free fall, the country’s currency is getting dragged down too and continues to find new depths with the regime facing a major cash crunch soon. — Diane Brady, Fortune, 5 Oct. 2026 Also, nobody seems capable of playing special teams, and several squads pegged as contenders in the preseason — the Houston Texans, Green Bay Packers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers — are in free fall. — J.j. Bailey, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for free fall

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of free fall was in 1851

Rhymes for free fall

See All Rhymes for free fall

Browse Nearby Words

free enterpriser
free fall
free fantasia
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Free fall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20fall. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

free-fall

noun
ˈfrē-ˈfȯl
: a condition of falling freely (as before opening one's parachute)

Medical Definition

free fall

noun
-ˌfȯl How to pronounce free fall (audio)
: the condition of unrestrained motion in a gravitational field
also : such motion
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