write-down

[ rahyt-doun ]

noun

, Accounting.

1. a reduction of the entered value of an asset account.
2. the procedure of reducing the recorded value of an asset, either by estimate or as a plan.

write down

verb

1. tr to set down in writing
2. tr to harm or belittle by writing about (a person) in derogatory terms
3. intr; foll by to or for to write in a simplified way (to a supposedly less cultured readership)
4. tr accounting to decrease the book value of (an asset)

noun

1. accounting a reduction made in the book value of an asset

Word History and Origins

Origin of write-down¹

First recorded in 1930–35; noun use of verb phrase write down

Example Sentences

The company also took a $9 billion write-down on the value of its cable channels, including TNT.

From Los Angeles Times

Discovery took a $9-billion write-down for its basic cable channel group.

From Los Angeles Times

Discovery took a $9-billion write-down of the value of its basic cable networks group.

From Los Angeles Times

Late last week, Paramount alerted investors that it took a $6-billion write-down on its cable television networks business, in yet another sign that Hollywood is reckoning with the ongoing deterioration of the traditional television business.

From Los Angeles Times

Discovery’s sluggish performance and $9-billion write-down in the value of its cable TV channels is rattling investors, sending the beleaguered company’s stock on a steep slide.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• decline
• decrease
• reduction
• weakening