decelerate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌdiːˈsɛləreɪt/
KK: /dɪˈsɛləˌreɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To slow down or reduce speed.
Example
The car began to decelerate as it approached the stop sign.
Tense Forms
Past: decelerated
Past Participle: decelerated
Conversation
Did you notice how the car had to decelerate on the highway?
Yeah, it was going way too fast for those turns.
I always get nervous when it has to decelerate suddenly like that.
Same here! It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
slow
brake
reduce
Antonyms
accelerate
speed
hasten
transitive verb
Definition
To make something go slower or reduce its speed.
Example
The driver had to decelerate quickly to avoid an accident.
Tense Forms
Past: decelerated
Past Participle: decelerated
Conversation
Have you noticed how fast those cars go on the highway?
Yeah, it's crazy! They really need to decelerate in the curves.
Exactly! It would be safer for everyone if they slowed down a bit.
Root Explanation
Decelerate is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "celerare" (meaning to make swift or to hasten). The word describes the action of making something less swift or reducing speed.
Memory Tip
Think of 'de-' meaning down or away, and 'celerare' meaning to make swift. This helps you remember that to decelerate means to reduce speed.
Visually Confused Words
recelebrate
celebrate
precelebrate
denucleate
deliberate
degenerate
decolorate
celebrater