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
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
Adaptations that typically take weeks or months can be completed within minutes, reducing downtime and operational complexity.
—
Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 3 Feb. 2026
The nature of emergency medicine involves moving quickly and efficiently from patient to patient, often with little-to-no breaks or no emotional downtime.
—Lynsey Eidell, PEOPLE, 1 Feb. 2026
The Cancer moon invites you to sink into restorative downtime to recharge your batteries.
—Usa Today, USA Today, 31 Jan. 2026
Highlights include the Nike Killshot 2 TXT Sneakers, currently 60 percent off, plus cozy, everyday styles like the Dearfoams Fireside Sydney Slippers for under $50—ideal for lounging at home or hotel downtime.
—Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for downtime
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Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 3 Feb. 2026
The nature of emergency medicine involves moving quickly and efficiently from patient to patient, often with little-to-no breaks or no emotional downtime.
—Lynsey Eidell, PEOPLE, 1 Feb. 2026
The Cancer moon invites you to sink into restorative downtime to recharge your batteries.
—Usa Today, USA Today, 31 Jan. 2026
Highlights include the Nike Killshot 2 TXT Sneakers, currently 60 percent off, plus cozy, everyday styles like the Dearfoams Fireside Sydney Slippers for under $50—ideal for lounging at home or hotel downtime.
—Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for downtime
Cite this Entry
“Downtime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downtime. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.
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