Decelerate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
decelerate
[dษชหsษlษหreษชt ]
Definition
driving
To decrease the speed of a vehicle or process gradually.
Synonyms
brake, reduce speed, slow down.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
decelerate |
Use in technical or formal contexts, especially in reference to machinery, vehicles, or processes. It's more scientific.
|
slow down |
Use in informal or conversational contexts, can refer to both vehicles and general activities. May also refer to reducing the pace of life or work.
|
reduce speed |
Use in relatively formal contexts, often seen in traffic signs and rules, or when giving instructions.
|
brake |
Use when specifically referring to the action of applying a braking mechanism to stop or slow down a vehicle.
|
Examples of usage
- She decelerated as she approached the intersection.
- The pilot decelerated the plane for landing.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, deceleration is often associated with negative acceleration, where an object slows down over time.
- Decelerating forces can include friction, drag, or resistance encountered by moving objects.
- Understanding deceleration is crucial in vehicle safety, particularly in the study of braking distances.
Psychology
- The concept of slowing down can also apply to mental processes, like taking a moment to think before reacting.
- In mindfulness practices, decelerating one's thoughts can lead to better emotional regulation.
- Research shows that people often need to decelerate during stress for clearer decision-making.
Pop Culture
- In various movies, characters must decelerate their actions to prevent dangerous outcomes, highlighting the importance of slowing down.
- The term is commonly used in sports commentary when discussing teams or players needing to control their pace.
- Music can also play with tempo to create feelings of anticipation or calmness by decelerating beats.
Technology
- In the realm of computer science, decelerate can refer to reducing the speed of data processing or user interface animations for better usability.
- Certain technologies, like adaptive cruise control in cars, are designed to automatically decelerate based on traffic conditions.
- Simulation programs often incorporate deceleration mechanics to create realistic movements in gaming environments.
Origin of 'decelerate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'decelerare', which means 'to lessen speed'.
- The prefix 'de-' typically indicates a reversal, while 'celer' refers to speed, helping to understand its meaning.
- It first appeared in English in the early 20th century, often used in scientific contexts.
The word 'decelerate' is derived from the Latin word 'de-' meaning 'down' and 'celerare' meaning 'to hasten'. It entered the English language in the mid-19th century and has been used primarily in the context of physics and mechanics to describe the reduction of speed or velocity.
Word Frequency Rank
This word's position of #32,511 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.
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- 32508 carburettor
- 32509 runt
- 32510 bandanna
- 32511 decelerate
- 32512 gossipy
- 32513 malodorous
- 32514 unhygienic
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