Slowed: meaning, definitions and examples
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slowed
[ sloʊd ]
past tense
Slowed is the past tense of the verb 'slow'. It refers to the action of reducing speed or making something less fast. In various contexts, it can pertain to physical motion, processes, or changes in environments. For example, a car may have slowed down, or a person might have slowed their pace. This term is commonly used in both everyday language and technical descriptions.
Synonyms
decelerated, diminished, reduced.
Examples of usage
- He slowed down to take a look.
- The economy gradually slowed after the boom.
- She slowed her breathing to calm down.
Etymology
The word 'slow' originates from the Old English 'slohw', meaning 'not fast.' Over time, its usage expanded to include not just physical speed but also metaphorical contexts, such as the pace of life or processes. The transformation into 'slowed' as a past tense form retains the core meaning of reduction in speed. In Middle English, 'slowe' was often used in various dialects, signifying a relative comparison to something faster. The modern English usage continues to reflect this original sense, while the flexibility of the word allows it to fit many contemporary discussions about pace, efficiency, and gradual change.