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

In her downtime, the singer has also attended award shows, film and music festivals, and fashion shows, all while showing off an array of designer shoes. — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 31 July 2026

Those capabilities reduce downtime while strengthening relationships between farmers, dealers and AGCO. — Peter High, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026

Earlier this month, Ronaldo gave fans a glimpse of his downtime with Rodríguez after a bittersweet sixth World Cup loss. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 30 July 2026

Battery life testing should also be conducted to confirm that this higher frequency during downtime doesn't impact efficiency. — Jon Martindale, PC Magazine, 30 July 2026

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