succumb

[suh-kuhm]

verb (used without object)

1. to give way to superior force; yield.

   to succumb to despair.

   Synonyms: surrender, accede, submit

2. to yield to disease, wounds, old age, etc.; die.

succumb

/ səˈkʌm /

verb

1. to give way in face of the overwhelming force (of) or desire (for)

2. to be fatally overwhelmed (by disease, old age, etc); die (of)

Other Word Forms

• succumber noun
• unsuccumbing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of succumb¹

First recorded in 1480–90; from Latin succumbere, from suc- suc- + -cumbere (derivative of cubāre “to lie down, recline”); incumbent

Word History and Origins

Origin of succumb¹

C15: from Latin succumbere to be overcome, from _sub- + -cumbere from cubāre to lie down

Example Sentences

The founders would be so proud to know that we made it that far before we finally succumbed to tyranny.

From Salon

Critics accuse Netanyahu of extending the war and succumbing to the demands of extremist ministers in his government’s coalition so as to remain in power.

From Los Angeles Times

Friends and colleagues of Urban Alchemy employee Joey Alexander, 60, said he was shot Friday and succumbed to his wounds Tuesday.

From Los Angeles Times

Arnzen said some residents fear the trees could fall, pointing to instances in Paradise where trees left standing for years after the fire that ravaged the area finally succumbed.

From Los Angeles Times

“Is it fun being depressed? You cannot succumb!”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bow 
• break down 
• buckle 
• capitulate 
• cave in 
• cease 
• defer 
• give in 
• give way 
• go down 
• pass away 
• perish 
• quit 
• wilt 
• yield