downshift

[ doun-shift ]
/ ˈdaʊnˌʃɪft /

verb (used without object)

to shift an automotive transmission or vehicle into a lower gear.
to become less active; slow down: The economy seems to be downshifting.

verb (used with object)

to shift (an automotive transmission or vehicle) into a lower gear.

noun

an act or instance of downshifting.

Origin of downshift

First recorded in 1950–55; down1 + shift

Example sentences from the Web for downshifting

British Dictionary definitions for downshifting

downshifting
/ (ˈdaʊnˌʃɪftɪŋ) /

noun

the practice of simplifying one's lifestyle and becoming less materialistic

Derived forms of downshifting

downshifter, noun