downturn

noun

down·​turn ˈdau̇n-ˌtərn 

: a downward turn especially toward a decline in business and economic activity

Examples of downturn in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That triggered a crunch among many developers and brought on a downturn in the property market that has weighed on the broader economy ever since. — ABC News, 20 Aug. 2026

This economic downturn pushed up the number of bankruptcies dramatically. — Jay L. Zagorsky, The Conversation, 19 Aug. 2026

Discussions have been underway for nearly two years, in the wake of a dramatic downturn in domestic production. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026

Leaders throughout history, such as Julius Caesar and Abraham Lincoln, have taught us plenty of lessons about leadership during turbulent times, including wars, economic downturns, technological disruptions, political instability and social changes. — Don Weber, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1658, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for downturn

• adjourn
• concern
• decern
• discern
• extern
• heartburn
• interne
• nocturne
• return
• sunburn
• unworn
• upturn