down

UK: daʊn | US: daʊn

Definition

  1. adv. from a higher to a lower position

  2. adj. directed or moving toward a lower place

  3. prep. in a descending direction along

  4. n. a period of low spirits or misfortune

Structure

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Etymology

The word "down" originates from Old English dūne, a shortened form of of dūne ("off the hill"). It evolved from the Proto-Germanic dūnaz, meaning "hill" or "mound," and is related to modern "dune." Over time, its meaning shifted from the physical hill itself to the direction of movement (descending). This reflects a common linguistic pattern where spatial terms acquire directional senses.

Examples

  1. She walked down the stairs slowly.

  2. The sun went down behind the mountains.

  3. He’s feeling down after the news.

  4. Prices have gone down this month.

  5. Scroll down to read more.