decreasing

[ dih-kree-sing ]

adjective

1. becoming less or fewer; diminishing.
2. Mathematics. (of a function) having the property that for any two points in the domain such that one is larger than the other, the image of the larger point is less than or equal to the image of the smaller point; nonincreasing. Compare increasing ( def 2 ).

Other Words From

• de·creasing·ly adverb
• unde·creasing adjective
• unde·creasing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of decreasing¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; decrease, -ing ²

Example Sentences

“It'll be a game-changer, decreasing the environmental impact across our whole transport sector,” says Salomets, who foresees big economic benefits.

From BBC

The country's infrastructure minister, Vladimir Svet, insisted "we are decreasing the budget as much as possible, we’ve rationalised the public procurement process and, if necessary, we'll take on a loan."

From BBC

The number of women's health clinics are decreasing, and maternal mortality rates increasing, as doctors and women alike face prosecution for potentially violating GOP-passed laws.

From Salon

San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran said she was grateful for the support of the CHP to help the city continue decreasing crime rates and apprehending criminal enterprises targeting neighborhoods and businesses.

From Los Angeles Times

For larger businesses, Trump wants to offer additional tax cuts — possibly decreasing the corporate tax rate to 15%.

From Salon

Related Words

• decrease
• deflation
• recession
• reduction
• shrinkage