wind down

verb

wound down also winded down; winding down; winds down

intransitive verb

1

: to draw gradually toward an end

the party was winding down

2

: relax, unwind

wind down with a good book

transitive verb

: to cause a gradual lessening of usually with the intention of bringing to an end

Synonyms of wind down

• relax
• chill out

Examples of wind down in a Sentence

not being one for alcoholic beverages, I prefer to wind down with a cup of tea every night

Recent Examples on the Web

And Friday emerged as the universal day to indulge in self-care, confirming that winding down before the weekend is a global wellness ritual. —Ciara Lucas, SELF, 10 Dec. 2025

But after the gatherings wind down, Christian prepares himself for one of the uncomfortable, sleepless nights that jeopardize his health. —Jessica Oliva, Miami Herald, 10 Dec. 2025

His time in Milwaukee appears to be winding down, and there will be a handful of suitors for the two-time MVP. —Ricardo Sandoval, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2025

Evening Adaptogens for Calm and Sleep Support Take calming adaptogens in the evening to help your body wind down and prepare for restful sleep. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 9 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for wind down

• adown
• blowdown
• breakdown
• countdown
• crackdown
• crosstown
• downtown
• drawdown
• dropdown
• facedown
• godown
• hometown