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Definition of decelerate

decelerate

/diːˈsɛl.ə.ɹeɪt/
de · cel · er · ate
Adjective:decelerative
•
Past Simple:decelerated
•
Past Participle:decelerated
•
Present Participle:decelerating
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decelerate Lexical Profile

decelerate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To reduce or cause to reduce in speed or rate of movement.

Example

"The train began to decelerate as it approached the crowded station platform."

2

To decrease in rate of growth, development, or economic activity.

Example

"Analysts predict that inflation will gradually decelerate over the next two quarters."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for decelerate
Antonyms
View all antonyms for decelerate

• Rhymes for decelerate

• Nearby Words

deceive
deceiver
deceivingly
decelerate
deceleration
decency
decent

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century as an antonym to 'accelerate,' combining the Latin prefix 'de-' (indicating reversal) with 'celerare' (to hasten), from 'celer' (swift).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Decelerate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/decelerate
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