switch-off

[ swich-awf, -of ]

noun

1. the act or process of switching off a power supply, light source, appliance, etc.

switch off

verb

1. to cause (a device) to stop operating by or as if by moving a switch, knob, or lever; turn off
2. informal.
   to cease to interest or be interested; make or become bored, alienated, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of switch-off¹

Noun use of verb phrase switch off

Idioms and Phrases

Stop paying attention, lose interest, as in Whenever he starts in on economics, I switch off automatically . This metaphoric expression transfers turning off a light switch or similar device to diverting one's attention. [c. 1860] Also see switch on .

Example Sentences

The team hoped to use the light pulses to prevent the bursts by switching off neurons that contained light-sensitive proteins.

From Science Daily

Mr Rollinson switched off the bus engine and told the other passengers he would not be leaving until the boy got off the bus.

From BBC

The callers had switched off their video, leaving only their fake names and authentic-looking badges displayed on blank screens.

From BBC

"I am typing this from the Sri Jayawardenapura general hospital, a public hospital which is switching off its lights and fans to try to bring down skyrocketing electricity costs."

From BBC

With winter approaching, power demands on the grid is expected to ease as air conditioners are switched off.

From BBC

Related Words

• achieve
• break up
• cease
• close
• complete
• conclude
• culminate
• delay
• drop
• expire
• finish
• give up
• halt
• play out
• quit
• resolve
• settle
• stop
• terminate
• wind up