Lower

/ˈloʊ.ər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person or thing that is lower in position or rank.
In the company hierarchy, she is considered a lower.
verb
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity.
The company decided to lower its prices to attract more customers.
To move or bring something down.
She carefully lowered the box onto the ground.
To make something less severe or serious.
The doctor prescribed medication to lower his blood pressure.
adjective
Situated or placed at a lower level.
The lower shelf of the bookcase is filled with cookbooks.
Having a smaller or lesser amount or degree.
He has a lower income compared to his colleagues.

Etymology

Middle English loweren, from the Old English lōwian, meaning 'to make low'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

lower the bar
To lower the standards or expectations.
lower oneself
To degrade oneself or to act in a way that is not dignified.
lower case
The smaller form of letters, as opposed to capital letters.

Related Words

lowered
Past tense of lower; made something lower.
lowering
The act of making or becoming lower.

Slang Meanings

To downgrade or diminish something.
He really lowered the quality of that project.
To take it easy or chill.
Let's lower and just enjoy the day.