Homonym: decline (Deterioration)
Decline refers to a gradual decrease or deterioration in quality, quantity, or strength. For example, when a tree loses its leaves in autumn, it is entering a period of decline as it prepares for winter. This natural process can also be seen in other areas, such as the decline of a business that struggles to attract customers and faces financial challenges.
In a broader sense, decline can apply to societies or cultures that may experience a loss of influence or vitality over time. For instance, the decline of the Roman Empire involved various factors, including economic troubles and invasions, leading to significant changes in the world.