Definition

A decrease in the price of an item or the amount by which the price is lowered.

Example

The store offered a markdown on all winter clothing to make room for spring styles.

Conversation

Did you see the markdown on those shoes at the store?

Yeah, I noticed it! They were way cheaper than before.

I think we should go back and grab a pair while the markdown lasts.

Good idea! Let's not miss out on such a great deal.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Markdown is formed from "mark" (from Old English *mearc*, meaning boundary or sign) and "down" (from Old English *dūn*, meaning hill or down). The term refers to a way of marking up text in a simplified format, often for web content, hence the idea of marking text down in a structured way.

Memory Tip

Think of 'marking' something to create a 'sign' or 'boundary' in a simplified way — that's what markdown does for text.

Visually Confused Words