Standard Lemma guide

down-

prefix · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

prefix

Meaning 1

Decrease.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: morpheme

Examples

  • Those bonds have been downrated.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

prefix

Meaning 2

Lower position or direction, literally or figuratively.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: morpheme

Examples

  • The end of the ride was a long coast downhill.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

prefix

Meaning 3

De-emphasis.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: morpheme

Examples

  • I tried to downplay the importance of the scandal.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From Middle English down-, doun-, dun-, from Old English dūne- (“down-”), from dūne (“down, downward”). More at down.