descent

noun

1. An instance of descending; act of coming down.

   We climbed the mountain with difficulty, but the descent was easier.

2. A way down.

   We had difficulty in finding the correct descent.

3. A sloping passage or incline.

   The descent into the cavern was wet and slippery.

4. Lineage or hereditary derivation.

   Our guide was of Welsh descent.

5. A drop to a lower status or condition; decline.

   After that, the holiday went into a steep descent.

6. A falling upon or invasion.

7. A particular extension of the idea of gluing. See Descent (mathematics).