set down

verb

set down; setting down; sets down

transitive verb

1
: to cause to sit down : seat
2
: to place at rest on a surface or on the ground
3
: to suspend (a jockey) from racing
4
: to cause or allow to get off a vehicle : deliver
5
: to land (an airplane) on the ground or water
6
b
: to put in writing
7
a
: regard, consider
set him down as a liar
b

Examples of set down in a Sentence

set the toddler down in her seat set down the names of those in attendance
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.
The agreement has been set down only in a 3 1/2 joint statement that left room for further talks on key issues. David McHugh, Fortune, 5 Sep. 2025 Meanwhile, Sylvia’s relationship with Carabinieri captain Giovanni Riva deepens, but the finalization of Riva’s divorce and his desire to set down roots in Umbria threatens Sylvia’s sense of independence. Peter White, Deadline, 3 Sep. 2025 Back in June, Alcaraz mounted a historic comeback after being two sets down and facing three championship points against Sinner in one of the greatest men’s French Open finals ever. Julia Andersen, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2025 Many flowering hardy perennials also appreciate extra time to set down roots and get established before the heat arrives next year. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 23 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for set down

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of set down was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Set down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/set%20down. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

set down

verb
1
: to cause to sit down : seat
2
: to place at rest on a surface or on the ground
3
: to land (an airplane) on the ground or water
4
: establish sense 2
the government set down laws
5
: to put in writing

More from Merriam-Webster on set down

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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