downer
Downer (noun) means something that makes people feel disappointed or depressed (informal). Example: “Finding out the concert was cancelled was a real downer.”
How to use downer
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething disappointing or depressing, or slang for a sedative drug.
Informal — common in casual speech, not formal writing.
Word forms
downers plural, downers plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Finding out the concert was cancelled was a real _____.
Etymology
Perhaps related to tanner (“sixpence”).
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for downer
See all rhymes for downer →Frequently asked questions
What does “downer” mean?
The word “downer” means something that makes people feel disappointed or depressed (informal). In plain terms, something disappointing or depressing, or slang for a sedative drug.
How do you pronounce “downer”?
“Downer” is pronounced DOW-nuh (/ˈdaʊnɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “downer” in a sentence?
Here is “downer” used in a sentence: “Finding out the concert was cancelled was a real downer.”
What is another word for “downer”?
Words with a similar meaning to “downer” include killjoy and spoilsport.
What part of speech is “downer”?
“Downer” is a noun.
How many meanings does “downer” have?
“Downer” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: something that makes people feel disappointed or depressed (informal).