downshift

noun

Definition of downshiftnext
as in deceleration
a usually gradual decrease in the pace or level of activity of something there are promising indications of a turnaround in the prolonged economic downshift

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of downshift There is no frantic downshift, no strained exhaust note, and little sensation of mechanical effort. — Karl Brauer, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 The sound of the hybrid V8 is mighty, and the sound of the upshifts and downshifts is downright violent. — Jerry Perez, The Drive, 15 July 2026 The already dirge-like film downshifts further, towards a more pleasant state of repose, as Robin convalesces. — David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 11 June 2026 This increases alertness, boosts available energy and temporarily downshifts nonessential functions like digestion. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 30 May 2026 Here’s where the trip downshifts into Southern charm. — Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 28 Apr. 2026 That’s the slowest pace of wage gains since 2021, and a downshift from the last two years, when pay bumps were closer to 4%. — Brian Cheung, NBC news, 4 Apr. 2026 In 2025, employment in the state was virtually flat, representing a major downshift from previous years, when the state added jobs at an average of around 2%. — Trevor Bach, Dallas Morning News, 27 Mar. 2026 As the 11-year cycle downshifts from solar maximum to solar minimum, the lights will begin to diminish in frequency and intensity. — The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Mar. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for downshift
  1. deceleration
  2. decline
  3. drop
  4. braking
  5. slowdown
  6. retardation
  7. slump
Noun
  • Over time, without regular use, the back of the body can lose its functional capacity for deceleration, which is when chronic knee pain generally starts to show up.
    — Dana Santas, CNN Money, 20 Aug. 2026
  • But Delapierre was flung forwards violently by the rapid deceleration and suffered a nasty face-plant into the cockpit.
    — Andrew Rice, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of deceleration
Noun
  • That rapid decline makes the question of how coach Dan Campbell and the team rebound one of the most interesting in the entire league.
    — NBC Sports, NBC news, 26 Aug. 2026
  • The local enrollment declines are mostly concentrated in local districts’ elementary schools.
    — Steven Walker, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of decline
Noun
  • The surprise drop kicked off a 60-day countdown for the re-issue.
    — Caché McClay, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Smooth it through damp hair before styling or use a few drops on dry lengths for an extra hit of shine and polish.
    — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of drop
Noun
  • Mandate proven vehicle safety technology like side guards and automatic braking.
    — Jessica Walker, New York Daily News, 24 Aug. 2026
  • In addition to Formula 1-standard safety barriers on the track, GPX Stream sends a driver’s in-car data and video to the pit lane, where Macleod can review braking, balance and line without occupying the passenger seat.
    — Lilian Raji, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of braking
Noun
  • The custody provider is expanding its institutional and capital markets capabilities just as crypto markets emerge from a prolonged trading slowdown.
    — Tanaya Macheel, CNBC, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Advertisement The recent slowdown in research could complicate things.
    — Alex Heath, Time, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of slowdown
Noun
  • The Everrati's left pedal operates pads on discs in the normal fashion, but the motors also give powerful regenerative retardation when the accelerator is lifted.
    — Mike Duff, Car and Driver, 18 June 2021
  • The policy of retardation of submarine technology ended right after the beginning of the Anglo-German naval race (marked by the German Naval Laws of 1898 and 1900).
    — chicagotribune.com, chicagotribune.com, 28 July 2017
Definition of retardation
Noun
  • Unitree’s recent slump has raised concerns about how Beijing may boost emerging strategic sectors without stoking a speculative frenzy.
    — Anniek Bao,Elaine Yu, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Cal Raleigh busted out of a season-long slump with the first three-homer game of his career Monday night.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of slump

Browse Nearby Words

downscaling
downshift
downshifts
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Cite this Entry

“Downshift.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/downshift. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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