downsize

verb

down·​size ˈdau̇n-ˌsīz How to pronounce downsize (audio)
downsized; downsizing; downsizes
Synonyms of downsizenext

transitive verb

1
: to reduce in size
especially : to design or produce in smaller size
2
: to fire (employees) for the purpose of downsizing a business

intransitive verb

: to undergo a reduction in size

Examples of downsize in a Sentence

They have downsized the car's engine in the new model. The company is planning to downsize next year. The company will be downsized next year.
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.
In 2019, about 60% of Olathe’s housing stock was less than $300,000, a price range that’s often considered attainable for first-time home buyers or residents looking to downsize. Taylor O'Connor, Kansas City Star, 10 Jan. 2026 The Saratoga City Council unanimously approved entering a tolling agreement with a developer in November to downsize a project and persuade them to withdraw their builder’s remedy application. Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 7 Jan. 2026 View gallery - 8 images One of the more enjoyable things about covering tiny houses is seeing each country's take on the art of downsizing. New Atlas, 1 Jan. 2026 The world suddenly needs more power, but one solution being tested is to downsize energy generation and distribute it more widely. IEEE Spectrum, 29 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for downsize

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of downsize was in 1975

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Cite this Entry

“Downsize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downsize. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

downsize

verb
down·​size ˈdau̇n-ˌsīz How to pronounce downsize (audio)
: to reduce in size
the company downsized its staff to cut costs

More from Merriam-Webster on downsize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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