downtime

noun

down·​time ˈdau̇n-ˌtīm How to pronounce downtime (audio)
Synonyms of downtimenext
1
: time during which production is stopped especially during setup for an operation or when making repairs
2
: inactive time (such as time between periods of work)
napping during our downtime
an injured athlete facing months of downtime

Examples of downtime in a Sentence

After a busy day at work, I look forward to some downtime at home. The kids napped during their downtime. We need to minimize network downtime.
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.
For someone as influential as Kim Kardashian, there’s hardly any downtime between breaking the internet and running several businesses. Ciara Lucas, SELF, 31 Mar. 2026 The device is designed for efficient, comfortable use with no pain or downtime, all in a compact, handheld design. ABC News, 30 Mar. 2026 Build in unplanned downtime and cater to different energy levels. Lauren Schuster, Charlotte Observer, 30 Mar. 2026 Then protect unplanned downtime on the schedule. Lauren Schuster, Miami Herald, 30 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for downtime

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of downtime was in 1928

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Downtime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downtime. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

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