Synonyms of recession

recession

noun

ri-ˈse-shən 

1

as in slump

a period of decreased economic activity

the country is just coming out of a recession, so expect to see fewer layoffs and more new jobs in the coming year

Synonyms & Similar Words

• slump
• depression
• panic
• downturn
• stagnation
• slowdown
• crash
• bust
• downswing
• downtrend
• downdraft
• downbeat

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• growth
• development
• boom
• progress
• recovery
• advancement
• rally

2

as in withdrawal

an act of moving away especially from something difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable

a retiring CEO making a gradual recession from the daily rigors of running a major corporation

Synonyms & Similar Words

• withdrawal
• retreat
• retirement
• pullback
• pullout
• recoil
• rout
• revulsion
• disengagement
• shrinking
• flinch
• disentanglement

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• advance
• advancement

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of recession

Republicans in 2010 capitalized on an economy still experiencing the recession that had aided Obama's win in 2008. — Ron Elving, NPR, 24 Oct. 2026

Goldman Sachs thinks the layoffs are waiting for a recession. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 22 Oct. 2026

These governments implemented large welfare programs that brought about severe fiscal deficits and deep economic recession. — Chris Roemer, Baltimore Sun, 21 Oct. 2026

Lignel began conversations with the gallery in 2008 as a recession wrought havoc upon the New York art market and the global economy. — Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 20 Oct. 2026