downsize

verb

down·​size ˈdau̇n-ˌsīz How to pronounce downsize (audio)
downsized; downsizing; downsizes

transitive verb

1
: to reduce in size
especially : to design or produce in smaller size
2
: to fire (employees) for the purpose of downsizing a business

intransitive verb

: to undergo a reduction in size

Examples of downsize in a Sentence

They have downsized the car's engine in the new model. The company is planning to downsize next year. The company will be downsized next year.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The move is part of President Donald Trump’s promise to downsize the federal government. Medora Lee, USA TODAY, 1 Mar. 2025 The outlet said more are expected Friday, and the administration has fired thousands of probationary employees in an effort to downsize the federal government. Kate Linderman, Miami Herald, 28 Feb. 2025 Callahan estimates about 60 to 70% of Elbow Room customers want a casita for multi-generational living, which is fairly common in San Antonio. Elbow Room often builds for people whose older parents are downsizing, or who want to build a separate home for their adult children on the same property. Megan Stringer, Axios, 26 Feb. 2025 According to a World Economic Forum report released last month, 41% of employers expect to downsize their workforce as AI begins to replicate roles. Natalie Kainz, NBC News, 26 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for downsize

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of downsize was in 1975

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Cite this Entry

“Downsize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downsize. Accessed 6 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

downsize

verb
down·​size ˈdau̇n-ˌsīz How to pronounce downsize (audio)
: to reduce in size
the company downsized its staff to cut costs

More from Merriam-Webster on downsize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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