Meaning & Definition
noun
a reduction in size, amount, or degree.
There was a noticeable decrease in sales this quarter.
the act of becoming smaller or fewer.
The decrease in temperature was welcome after the hot summer.
a decline or diminishment.
The decrease in crime rates is attributed to better law enforcement.
verb
to make or become smaller or fewer in size, amount, intensity, or degree.
The company decided to decrease its workforce to cut costs.
to diminish or lessen in quantity or magnitude.
The temperature will decrease significantly at night.
to reduce the amount of something.
She needs to decrease her sugar intake for better health.
Etymology
Middle English: from Old French decrescer, from Latin decrescere, from de- ‘down’ + crescere ‘to grow’.
Common Phrases and Expressions
decrease in price:
a reduction in the cost of something.
decrease the risk:
to lower the chance of a negative outcome.
decrease in size:
to become smaller in dimensions.
Slang Meanings
cut down
I'm going to cut down on my spending this month.
trim back
We need to trim back on our expenses to save money.