downturn

noun

down·​turn ˈdau̇n-ˌtərn How to pronounce downturn (audio)
: a downward turn especially toward a decline in business and economic activity

Examples of downturn in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Unlike fiat currency, gold and silver reserves cannot be printed or expanded to stimulate economic growth during downturns. Luciano Duque, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 July 2025 Yet, equity markets are running on hopes of central bank easing and a belief that political leaders will swerve at the last moment, appearing to ignore the risk of a significant economic downturn, according to Bank of America. Ganesh Rao, CNBC, 4 July 2025 Selling during a downturn often means missing the rebound. Drew O’Connor, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 Some artists report losing significant opportunities and having to switch careers because of the genre’s downturn; others are paranoid, unable to discern the real from the hoax. Kieran Press-Reynolds, Pitchfork, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for downturn

Word History

First Known Use

1658, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of downturn was in 1658

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Cite this Entry

“Downturn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downturn. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

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