downside

noun

down·​side ˈdau̇n-ˌsīd How to pronounce downside (audio)
Synonyms of downsidenext
1
: a downward trend (as of prices)
2
: a negative aspect
the downside of fame

Synonyms of downside

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Examples of downside in a Sentence

He could find no downside to the car. the downside of living in the country is, of course, the long commute to work
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There’s just one rather uncomfortable downside—while delicious, cucumbers can cause some people to burp, or even experience indigestion. — Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 6 Aug. 2026 The downside is a rotary tumbler takes about twice as long as a vibratory tumbler. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 5 Aug. 2026 Eating more whole foods can support weight, blood sugar, and heart health, but overly restrictive versions may have downsides. — Lindsey Desoto, HEALTH, 4 Aug. 2026 The downsides of fireworks—trash, smoke, wildfire, dog trauma—are something that the average spectator pushes out of mind. — Paige Williams, New Yorker, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for downside

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of downside was in 1905

Phrases Containing downside

Rhymes for downside

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Browse Nearby Words

downshift
downside
downside up
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Cite this Entry

“Downside.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downside. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on downside

Nglish: Translation of downside for Spanish Speakers

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