plummet

This term conveys a sense of sudden, uncontrolled, and steep descent. It evokes a visceral image of a heavy object falling vertically under the force of gravity, suggesting a lack of resistance or a catastrophic failure of support. When applied to abstract values like prices, temperatures, or morale, it emphasizes the speed and severity of the decline. It is more intense than words like drop or decrease, implying a crash or a sharp plunge rather than a gradual slide.