lower
UK: ˈləʊə | US: ˈloʊər
adj. comparative form of "low"; situated below another part
vt. to reduce in height, amount, or intensity
vi. to become less in amount or degree
The word "lower" originates from the Old Norse "lág," meaning "not high," combined with the English comparative suffix "-er." This suffix is used to form the comparative degree of adjectives (e.g., "fast" → "faster"). Over time, "lower" evolved to function both as an adjective (comparative of "low") and a verb (to reduce in position or degree). The dual usage reflects its logical progression from describing relative height to indicating active reduction.
The lower shelf is easier for children to reach.
The company decided to lower prices to attract more customers.
Her voice lowered to a whisper as she shared the secret.
The sun began to lower behind the mountains.
He lowered his expectations after realizing the difficulty of the task.