downtime

noun

down·​time ˈdau̇n-ˌtīm 

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

Synonyms of downtime

• winter
• break

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

Designed specifically for the body (the consistency isn’t smooth and fluid enough for the face), Alloclae essentially provides a fat transfer—natural, long-lasting volume—without the hassle, anesthesia, expense, and downtime associated with liposuction. —Jolene Edgar, Allure, 19 Nov. 2025

Build in downtime The DreamMore is designed to feel warm and inviting, especially during the holiday season. —Abby Price, Southern Living, 18 Nov. 2025

The breach led to several days of downtime, disrupting vital services in multiple states. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 14 Nov. 2025

This reduces downtime and supports long shifts that involve constant walking and lifting. —Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 14 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for downtime

• airtime
• bedtime
• daytime
• enzyme
• halftime
• lifetime
• longtime
• lunchtime
• mealtime
• meantime
• nighttime
• noontime