downward spiral

American  

[doun-werd spahy-ruhl] / ˈdaʊn wərd ˈspaɪ rəl /

noun

1. a continuous, usually rapid negative trend, especially one with a repeated and worsening cycle of events or states.

   The more I doubted myself, the more confused I became, in a vicious downward spiral.

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Etymology

Origin of downward spiral

First recorded in 1870–80

Example Sentences

“San Francisco’s economy cannot credibly be described as being in a downward spiral at the moment,” the office wrote.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

"It's one more episode in this whole downward spiral into which we've been dragged," she said.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

Although widely recognized as perhaps the greatest golfer of all time, Woods, 50, has been in a downward spiral personally and professionally for years.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

These pressures can trigger what scientists call an "extinction vortex," a downward spiral in which shrinking populations and worsening genetic health reinforce each other and push species closer to extinction.

From Science Daily • Mar. 6, 2026

She tried to mask the downward spiral of the conversation with a sympathetic smile, but we both knew what the ultimate outcome could end up being.

From "Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence" by Sonja Thomas