cut down

verb

cut down; cutting down; cuts down

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 size

intransitive verb

: to reduce or curtail volume or activity

cut down on smoking

see also:

cut down to size

Examples of cut down in a Sentence

we need to cut down that dying tree

Recent Examples on the Web

That said, a low-sugar diet can also be helpful and may be a better option for those who want to cut down on foods and drinks that may spike blood sugar, while still allowing a range of healthy carbs. — Jillian Kubala, HEALTH, 17 Sep. 2026

This should help cut down on 'ghost meetings' (meetings that are scheduled but end up being cancelled or moved to a video call) and make the whole process a bit less of a hassle. — New Atlas, 17 Sep. 2026

Refillables use a reusable case, cost more upfront and cut down on packaging thrown away over time. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 17 Sep. 2026

After winning the Heisman in 2016, Jackson improved significantly as a passer in 2017, upping his completion percentage and passing yards per game, while also cutting down on interceptions. — The Athletic College Football Staff, New York Times, 16 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Rhymes for cut down

• adown
• blowdown
• breakdown
• countdown
• crackdown
• crosstown
• downtown
• drawdown
• dropdown
• facedown
• godown
• hometown

Kids Definition

cut down

verb

1

: to knock down and kill or wound

2

: to make over in a smaller size

3

: to reduce something in amount

cut down on energy use

Medical Definition

cutdown

noun

cut·​down ˈkət-ˌdau̇n 

: incision of a superficial blood vessel (as a vein) to facilitate insertion of a catheter (as for administration of fluids)