slump
UK[slʌmp]US[slʌmp]
v
To fall or sink suddenly and heavily
v
To undergo a sudden severe decline in economic activity or value
n
A sudden severe fall in economic activity or value
n
A sudden failure or decline in performance or condition
Etymology
The word 'slump' first appeared in English in the late 17th century, likely borrowed from a Scandinavian source such as Norwegian 'slumpa' (to fall or sink) or Danish 'slumpe' (to stumble upon). Its core sense is imitative, evoking the sound or sudden, heavy motion of something collapsing or dropping loosely. This vivid, onomatopoeic origin directly informs its modern meanings, which extend from the physical act of slumping in a chair to the metaphorical collapse of prices or economic activity, always retaining the sense of an abrupt, uncontrolled decline.
Analysis
The word 'slump' is considered a simplex word. It is likely of Scandinavian origin, imitative in nature, and functions as a single, unanalyzable morpheme in modern English.
Examples
Exhausted, he let himself slump into the armchair.
The company's profits began to slump during the recession.
The team is in a severe slump, having lost their last ten games.