derate

verb

de·rate | \(ˌ)dē-ˈrāt

\

Definition of derate

transitive verb

: to lower the rated capability of (something, such as an electrical or mechanical apparatus) because of deterioration or inadequacy

Examples of derate in a Sentence

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The wheels are then derated to – that is, run at – 50 percent of maximum speed. — Charles Platt, WIRED, "Re-Energizer," 1 May 2000

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'derate.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Time Traveler for derate

The first known use of derate was in 1947

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