down-
prefix
- (forming directional verbs denoting downward movement from other verbs)
Wiktionary
prefix
Etymology: From Middle English down-, doun-, dun-, from Old English dūne- (“down-”), from dūne (“down, downward”). More at down.
- Decrease.
“Those bonds have been downrated.”
- Lower position or direction, literally or figuratively.
“The end of the ride was a long coast downhill.”
- De-emphasis.
“I tried to downplay the importance of the scandal.”