phaseout

1 of 2

noun

phase·​out ˈfāz-ˌau̇t How to pronounce phaseout (audio)
Synonyms of phaseoutnext
: a gradual stopping (as in operations or production) : a closing down by phases

phase out

2 of 2

verb

phased out; phasing out; phases out

transitive verb

: to discontinue the practice, production, or use of by phases

intransitive verb

: to stop production or operation by phases

Examples of phaseout in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Noun
More than a year after those coins entered circulation, retailers still lack clarity on how to navigate the coin’s gradual phaseout. — Brian Delp, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 The measure revives a 2022 phaseout that was thrown out by a judge. — Los Angeles Times, 23 June 2026
Verb
Horvath highlighted Los Angeles County's commitment to phasing out existing wells and banning new oil drilling to achieve 100% renewable energy. — Julie Sharp, CBS News, 10 Aug. 2026 Key changes include phasing out the SAVE plan, introducing new repayment options like RAP, and imposing new restrictions on Parent PLUS loans. — Adam S. Minsky, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for phaseout

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1951, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1940, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of phaseout was in 1940

Rhymes for phaseout

See All Rhymes for phaseout

Browse Nearby Words

Phaseolus
phaseout
phase out
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Phaseout.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phaseout. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

phase out

verb
: to discontinue doing, producing, or using
phasing out old machinery

More from Merriam-Webster on phaseout

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for phaseout

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