Main Entry: cut down

Function: verb

Date: 1571

transitive verb

1 a : to strike down and kill or incapacitate b : knock down
2 a : to remodel by removing extras or unwanted furnishings and fittings b : to remake in a smaller sizeintransitive verb : to reduce or curtail volume or activity <cut down on smoking>

— cut down to size : to reduce from an inflated or exaggerated importance to true or suitable stature