Definition

A small decrease in value or amount, often used in financial contexts to describe a drop in stock prices or other measurements.

Example

The stock experienced a downtick after the disappointing earnings report.

Conversation

Did you see the stock market today?

Yeah, there was a noticeable downtick in a lot of stocks.

I wonder what caused that sudden drop.

It might be due to the recent news; it always affects the market.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Downtick → It is formed from "down" (from Old English "dūn", meaning downward or lower) and "tick" (from Middle English "tikken", meaning to make a slight sound or mark). The word "downtick" refers to a small decrease or downward movement, often used in financial contexts to indicate a drop in prices or values.

Memory Tip

Think of something moving 'downward' ('down') and making a small mark or sound ('tick') — that's why a downtick means a small decrease.

Visually Confused Words