What Is Descending Triangle?
A descending triangle is the mirror of the ascending: lower highs converging onto a flat horizontal support. Visually a right triangle pointing down. The interpretation is that sellers are getting more aggressive (lower highs) while buyers are holding a specific price level — until they aren't.
Standard expectation is a downside break through the flat support, with a target equal to the triangle's height projected down from the breakdown point. Historical breakdown rates run around 65-70% of textbook descending triangles in trending markets; less in choppy ones.
False breakouts happen, especially when the pattern forms inside a larger uptrend. Confirmation comes from volume expanding on the breakdown and price closing below support, not just intraday wicks. A failed breakdown that recovers above support often triggers strong upside as shorts cover.
Related terms
- Ascending Triangle — Bullish continuation pattern with a flat ceiling and rising support.
- Support and Resistance — Price levels where buying or selling pressure historically halts price movement.
- Breakout — A price move beyond an established support, resistance, or chart pattern boundary.
- Head and Shoulders Pattern — A bearish reversal pattern with three peaks — left shoulder, higher head, right shoulder.