Synonyms of downtime

downtime

noun

ˈdau̇n-ˌtīm 

as in winter

a period of often involuntary inactivity or idleness

a knee operation that could result in months of downtime for the ski racer

Synonyms & Similar Words

• winter
• break
• lull
• layoff
• time-out
• interruption
• pause
• recess
• suspension
• breath
• latency
• breather
• suspense
• abeyance
• dormancy
• quiescence
• doldrums

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of downtime

Microneedling stimulates your own collagen with minimal downtime, while a series of light to medium chemical peels can brighten the complexion, improve texture and help fade residual summer discoloration. — Carlos Wolf, Miami Herald, 6 Aug. 2026

This helps preserve legitimate business activity while removing the effects of an unintended action with limited downtime and a clear audit trail. — Rick Vanover, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026

Because Heven’s proprietary hydrogen fuel cell refueling systems operate with full grid independence, drones can refuel in minutes at remote base camps, with the aim of reducing downtime between missions. — Nia Bowers, USA Today, 6 Aug. 2026

Jackson and Turner-Smith enjoyed some downtime in the Caribbean with 6-year-old Juno. — Leigh Blickley, Entertainment Weekly, 5 Aug. 2026