downside

noun

down·​side ˈdau̇n-ˌsīd How to pronounce downside (audio)
Synonyms of downsidenext
1
: a downward trend (as of prices)
2
: a negative aspect
the downside of fame

Examples of downside in a Sentence

He could find no downside to the car. the downside of living in the country is, of course, the long commute to work
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For EssilorLuxottica, the burgeoning demand for AI glasses comes with a downside, in the form of lower profit margins due to costs such as factory expansions and more-expensive electronic components. Bloomberg, Mercury News, 24 Feb. 2026 But this tissue’s sturdiness can have downsides. Claire Maldarelli, Scientific American, 24 Feb. 2026 While moderate amounts are generally safe, regular caffeine use or high doses can have downsides and side effects. Brandi Jones, Verywell Health, 23 Feb. 2026 There are downsides to both geothermal systems. Jan Ellen Spiegel, Hartford Courant, 23 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for downside

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of downside was in 1905

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Cite this Entry

“Downside.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downside. Accessed 28 Feb. 2026.

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