English Lexicon

Step-down

/ˈstɛpˌdaʊn/
nounadjectiveCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #8500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    An act of resigning or relinquishing a position of authority, power, or responsibility.

    "The unexpected step-down of the chief executive sent shockwaves through the financial markets."
As adjective
  1. 1

    Designating a reduction or decrease in intensity, level, voltage, or degree of care.

    "Patients are moved from the intensive care unit to the step-down unit once their condition stabilizes."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the phrasal verb 'step down', originating in Middle English from Old English 'stæppan' (to step) and 'dūne' (downwards). The compound noun form emerged in the late 19th century initially in electrical engineering to describe voltage reduction transformers, later broadening to administrative resignation and medical care transitions.

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