down
UK[daʊn]US[daʊn]
adv
From a higher to a lower place or position.
adv
In or to a lying or sitting position.
adv
To or at a lower level of intensity, volume, or activity.
prep
From a higher to a lower point of (something).
prep
Along the course or extent of (something).
adj
Directed or moving towards a lower place or level.
adj
Unhappy or depressed.
v
To cause to fall or be defeated.
n
A period of misfortune or low spirits.
Etymology
The word 'down' originates from the Old English 'dūn', meaning "hill." This term is likely related to the Old Norse 'dúnn', referring to a "down" or "feather," suggesting a conceptual link to something soft or a gentle slope. The primary sense of moving from a higher to a lower position evolved from the idea of descending from a hill. Over time, this core spatial meaning expanded metaphorically to encompass a wide range of abstract senses, including reduction, defeat, and emotional states.
Analysis
The word 'down' is a simplex word of Old English origin. It does not contain separable morphemes in its modern English form.
Examples
She looked down from the top of the tower.
Please sit down and make yourself comfortable.
The manager asked to turn the music down.