downshift

/ˈdaʊnʃɪft/
verb
  1. To change a vehicle into a lower gear, usually to slow down or gain more power.
    • You should downshift when driving down a steep hill to save your brakes.
    • He downshifted as he approached the sharp curve.
    • The driver downshifted smoothly before the stoplight.
  2. To reduce the level of stress or responsibility in one's life, often by taking a simpler job or working fewer hours.
    • He downshifted from a high-pressure job to a part-time teaching position.
    • Many people downshift in their 50s to enjoy life more.
    • After years of working long hours, she decided to downshift and move to the countryside.
noun
  1. An act of changing to a lower gear in a vehicle.
    • The downshift caused the engine to rev loudly.
    • He practiced downshifts on the empty road.
    • A smooth downshift is a sign of good driving skill.
  2. A change to a less stressful or simpler way of living.
    • The downshift in her career allowed her more time with family.
    • Many people consider a downshift to improve their quality of life.
    • Their downshift to a smaller town was a big lifestyle change.
What does "downshift" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean