downier; downiest
Synonyms of downy
1
: resembling a bird's down
2
: covered with down
3
: made of down
4

Examples of downy in a Sentence

the downy surface of a ripe peach
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.
Flavors of black cherry, star anise, and mint are set into downy tannins that linger on the palate. Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 17 June 2026 Plants produce a basal rosette of downy foliage in their first year and flower in the second season, after which the plants typically die out. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 12 May 2026 The following season, Jackie was tending two downy babies — BBB (Big Bear Baby) and Stormy. Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 3 Mar. 2026 Just recently, Pera put a smooth mushroom pate on Coltivare’s menu, blanketed in a downy fluff of truffles. Aviva Bechky, Houston Chronicle, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for downy

Word History

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of downy was in 1551

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Downy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downy. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

downy

adjective
downier; downiest
1
: resembling a bird's down
2
: covered with or made of down

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