Lower
'ləʊər
Definitions
3 meaningsTo move something down to a position that is below something else, or to make something decrease in value or intensity.
'ləʊər
To move something to a lower position or level.
He lowered the blinds to block out the sun.
💡 Simply: Think of lowering a rope so someone can climb down, or lowering the thermostat so the room gets cooler. It means to make something go down.
👶 For kids: To move something down, like putting a toy on the floor.
More Examples
The company lowered the price of their product.
The helicopter lowered the rescue basket to the injured climber.
How It's Used
"She lowered the volume of the music."
"The crane lowered the beams into place."
To reduce something's value, degree, or amount; to demote someone.
'ləʊər
To make something less in rank, status, or intensity.
The school lowered the requirements for admission.
💡 Simply: Imagine lowering your voice when you want to be quiet or lowering your expectations when things are tough. It's about making something smaller or less.
👶 For kids: To make something smaller or less, like lowering the volume on the TV.
More Examples
The company lowered her position due to poor performance.
They lowered the speed limit to improve safety.
How It's Used
"The government lowered the voting age."
"The central bank lowered interest rates to stimulate the economy."
Being in a position or place that is below something else.
'ləʊər
Situated at a point below something else.
The lower level of the building was used for storage.
💡 Simply: If something is lower, it's simply below something else, like the lower shelves in a cupboard.
👶 For kids: Being at the bottom, like your legs are on the lower part of your body.
More Examples
She pointed to the lower portion of the map.
The lower grades in school are elementary.
How It's Used
"The lower back is prone to injury."
"The lower Mississippi River is navigable."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Old English *lāgra*, comparative of *lāg* ('low'), from Proto-Germanic *lēgaz* ('low'). Related to Dutch *lager* and German *leger*.
The word "lower" has been used since Old English to describe physical descent, and over time expanded to include reduction in value, status, and intensity.
Memory tip
Imagine you are lowering a bucket into a well; you're bringing it down.
Word Origin
"low"