decelerate
UK[ˌdiːˈseləreɪt]US[ˌdiːˈseləreɪt]
v
to reduce speed; to move or cause to move more slowly.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
celer
ate
de
reverse
celer
speed
ate
verb suffix
Etymology
the word "decelerate" is a modern english formation, constructed from classical latin elements. it combines the prefix "de-," which here reverses or negates the action, with the root "celer," meaning speed, derived from the latin adjective celer (swift). the verb-forming suffix "-ate" was added to create a term meaning "to remove speed." while the latin root celer can be traced back to the proto-indo-european root kel-, meaning "to drive, set in motion," the specific construction "decelerate" follows a logical, antonymic pattern to its counterpart "accelerate," entering english in the late 19th century to describe the process of slowing down.
Analysis
Structure: de (reverse) + celer (speed) + ate (verb suffix)
de: a latin prefix meaning "down, away, off, reverse the action of."
celer: from latin celer, meaning "swift, quick, speedy."
ate: a verb-forming suffix from latin -atus, indicating to perform an action.
Examples
the driver began to decelerate as he approached the sharp curve.
the economy is expected to decelerate slightly in the coming quarter.
apply the brakes gently to decelerate the vehicle smoothly.