1
as in reduces
to make smaller in amount, volume, or extent
first, the mediator tried to de-escalate the tension in the room
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in decreases
to grow less in scope or intensity especially gradually
the fighting de-escalated as the peace talks progressed
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for de-escalates
Verb
-
This is a time of giving and getting support, because practical care reduces friction.—
Tarot.com,
New York Daily News,
6 Mar. 2026 -
The revolutionary pharoah builds a great city and reduces spiritual chaos by focusing on a single-minded form of worship.—
Classical Music Critic,
Los Angeles Times,
6 Mar. 2026
Verb
-
When blood vessels relax, the pressure inside them decreases.—
Carrie Madormo,
Health,
3 Mar. 2026
-
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness Obstructive sleep apnea decreases the total amount of quality sleep.—
Ashley Olivine,
Verywell Health,
27 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
Maybe the immediate need diminishes a bit after free agency.—
Mike DeFabo,
New York Times,
6 Mar. 2026
-
Give ample space to large vehicles - Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.—
STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
5 Mar. 2026
Verb
-
While a panic attack subsides eventually, the anxiety-like feeling that precedes a heart attack won’t go away and may even increase in intensity over time.—
Nadine Avola,
Flow Space,
19 Feb. 2026
-
As investor panic subsides, these software names should get interest from traders, according to Pettit.—
Davis Giangiulio,
CNBC,
16 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
Both trade lanes experienced 19 percent volume declines.—
Glenn Taylor,
Sourcing Journal,
9 Mar. 2026
-
This comes at a fiscally dire time for Broward County Public Schools, which has lost significant revenue as school enrollment declines each year.—
Amanda Rosa,
Miami Herald,
9 Mar. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“De-escalates.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/de-escalates. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.
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