plateau
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /plæˈtoʊ/
KK: /plæˈtoʊ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To reach a stable level or to stop increasing or decreasing after a period of change.
Example
After several months of rapid growth, the company's profits plateaued.
Tense Forms
Past: plateaued
Past Participle: plateaued
Conversation
I was really stressed about my work last week, but now it seems to have plateaued at a manageable level.
That's great to hear! Sometimes it just takes a little time to adjust.
Yeah, I was worried it would keep getting worse, but I guess it just needed to level off.
Exactly, and now you can focus on other things without feeling overwhelmed.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
level
stabilize
equalize
Antonyms
fluctuate
vary
oscillate
noun
Definition
A flat, elevated area of land that is higher than the surrounding land, often with a relatively level surface.
Example
The hikers reached a plateau where they could rest and enjoy the view.
Conversation
Have you ever been to a plateau before?
Yeah, I went to one last summer, and it was amazing!
That sounds awesome! Was it hard to hike up to the plateau?
Root Explanation
Plateau → The word originates from the French word *plateau*, meaning a flat or level surface. It describes an elevated flat area of land.
Memory Tip
Imagine a flat surface on a high area — that's what a plateau is, a flat land that is elevated.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.