tumble

word

Definition

To fall suddenly, often rolling or turning over; can also mean to move or drop suddenly in amount, or to perform acrobatic rolls.

Usage & Nuances

Often informal. Used for both physical falling (especially rolling) and prices or numbers going down fast (e.g., 'stock prices tumbled'). Also used in gymnastics or when someone turns over in the air. Common collocations: 'take a tumble', 'tumble down', 'tumble dryer' (machine for drying clothes).

Example Sentences

The child began to tumble down the grassy hill.

basic

Be careful or you might tumble from the ladder.

basic

The acrobat can tumble easily across the stage.

basic

Stock prices tumbled after the news was announced.

natural

He took a nasty tumble on the ice but wasn't hurt.

natural

My laundry isn't dry yet—I think the tumble dryer stopped working.

natural