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noun

downsizing

Downsizing (noun) means the act of reducing the size of a company's workforce, often to cut costs. Example: “The downsizing led to hundreds of layoffs.”

noun
1
The act of reducing the size of a company's workforce, often to cut costs.
"The downsizing led to hundreds of layoffs."
2
The act of moving to a smaller home or reducing possessions.
"After the kids moved out, they started downsizing."

How to use downsizing

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishMaking something smaller — usually a company's staff, or a household's size and belongings.

Common pairings
company downsizing downsizing to a smaller house

Word forms

downsizings plural

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The _____ led to hundreds of layoffs.

Etymology

From downsize plus -ing.

curtailment retrenchment

Related words

Rhymes for downsizing

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Frequently asked questions

What does “downsizing” mean?

The word “downsizing” means the act of reducing the size of a company's workforce, often to cut costs. In plain terms, making something smaller — usually a company's staff, or a household's size and belongings.

How do you use “downsizing” in a sentence?

Here is “downsizing” used in a sentence: “The downsizing led to hundreds of layoffs.”

What part of speech is “downsizing”?

“Downsizing” is a noun.

How many meanings does “downsizing” have?

“Downsizing” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of reducing the size of a company's workforce, often to cut costs.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial