crackdown
Americannoun
Etymology
Origin of crackdown
1930–35, noun use of verb phrase crack down
Explanation
When an authority uses strict or harsh measures to curb certain behavior, it's a crackdown. A crackdown can be seen as positive or negative, depending on what kind of activity is being limited. The violent crackdown of a repressive government on its citizens is anti-democratic, but your principal's crackdown on bullying is most likely good for everyone in your school. Crackdown, with its sense of "severe discipline," may have originated from the phrase crack the whip, although language experts aren't certain.
Vocabulary lists containing crackdown
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The order calls on local authorities to set up "holding centres" for "apprehended foreigners" awaiting deportation, as part of a broader crackdown on illegal migration.
From Barron's • May 25, 2026
The Hong Kong-based financial firm came under pressure after China’s securities regulator launched a broad crackdown on unauthorized cross-border investing, targeting online brokerages.
From Barron's • May 22, 2026
Whatever the legality of insider trading, a crackdown has begun.
From BBC • May 21, 2026
Sierra Leone has become the latest African country to receive migrants deported from the United States amid Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal immigration.
From BBC • May 20, 2026
To some, the government’s crackdown did not seem imminent so they did not take the precautions necessary to lessen its effect.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
