downshift

American  

[daun-shift] / ˈdaʊnˌʃɪft /

verb (used without object)

1. to shift an automotive transmission or vehicle into a lower gear.

2. to become less active; slow down.

   The economy seems to be downshifting.

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verb (used with object)

1. to shift (an automotive transmission or vehicle) into a lower gear.

noun

1. an act or instance of downshifting.

Etymology

Origin of downshift

First recorded in 1950–55; down ¹ + shift

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

downshift

I asked Chavie how luxury brands are reacting to the downshift.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 24, 2026

“We don’t see many signs that would get us worried about a downshift in momentum,” said Michael Feroli, chief U.S. economist at JPMorgan Chase.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 7, 2026

Time to downshift to the more leisurely part of your evening—and maybe even to the start of your holiday weekend.

From Slate ● Jun. 18, 2026

Taken together, the energy shock and tighter conditions should equate to a roughly 100 basis point economic downshift.

From Barron's ● Apr. 1, 2026

Turn the corner, downshift and pedal harder, up the hill to Rachel’s house.

From "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson

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