decelerate

/ˌdɛsɪˈlɛrɪt/

Definitions

1. verb

to decrease the rate or speed of something, especially an object in motion

“The driver had to decelerate sharply to avoid hitting the pedestrian.”

2. verb

to become or make something less intense or severe

“The storm is decelerating, and the rain is letting up.”

3. noun

the process of decreasing the rate or speed of something

“The car’s deceleration was smooth and controlled.”

4. noun

a decrease in rate or speed

“The deceleration of the vehicle was caused by the application of the brakes.”

Synonyms

  • brake
  • retard
  • slow down

Antonyms

  • accelerate
  • speed up