downshift

[doun-shift]

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.

verb (used with object)

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

noun

1. an act or instance of downshifting.

Word History and Origins

Origin of downshift¹

First recorded in 1950–55; down ¹ + shift

Example Sentences

UCLA’s basketball team might downshift its lineup in an attempt to hasten success.

From Los Angeles Times

Middle East peace negotiator, said even getting to phase one — and the six-week pause in fighting — would bring about a “downshift in the escalation of the military campaign, fewer people dying.”

From Seattle Times

Taken on its own, the downshift in growth is not necessarily worrisome, particularly given that the Federal Reserve has been trying to cool off the economy.

From New York Times

The first two episodes set a speed that the middle hours downshift to the show's detriment.

From Salon

Chief executive Alex Mahon said the "reality" of the "rapid downshift" in the economy and advertising prompted the change, as it focused more on its digital offerings.

From BBC