Lower Meaning
Lower Definition & Usage
To move or cause to move to a lower position.
Examples
- "She lowered the bucket into the well to fetch some water."
- "He carefully lowered the painting onto the table."
- "The pilot lowered the aircraft as it approached the runway."
- "Please lower your voice; others are trying to concentrate."
- "The temperature will lower as the sun sets."
To diminish or reduce in intensity, amount, or degree.
Examples
- "The news of the disaster lowered his spirits."
- "Her tone of voice lowered as she spoke about her struggles."
- "The new tax policy could lower the cost of healthcare."
- "The constant noise from the street has lowered my ability to concentrate."
- "Your grades will improve if you lower your expectations."
Situated or placed at a relatively low point or position.
Examples
- "The lower shelf is perfect for storing heavier items."
- "We need to check the lower branches of the tree for any damage."
- "The lower half of the mountain was covered in mist."
- "Her lower back ached after hours of sitting."
- "He lives in the lower part of the city, near the river."
Cultural Context
The word 'lower' has been in use since Middle English, derived from Old French and ultimately from Latin. It is commonly used in both physical and metaphorical senses, and its versatility makes it an integral part of English vocabulary.
The Depths of Change
Story
The Depths of Change
Mark had always been proud of his ability to stay calm under pressure. But today was different. As he watched the large construction crane carefully lower the steel beams into place, he couldn't help but feel the weight of the past few months hanging over him. The project had started out with such promise, but now, with budget cuts and tight deadlines, things seemed to be steadily lowering into chaos. Across the yard, his colleague Sarah was trying to lower the volume of her conversation as the boss approached. 'I really think we can find a way out of this mess,' she whispered, her voice lowering even further. Mark nodded, though he was less certain. His optimism had lowered over the weeks of delays and complications. 'Maybe we just need to focus on lowering our expectations,' Mark said, half-joking. It was a coping mechanism he'd developed over the years. When things got tough, he found humor in the most unlikely places. Later that afternoon, Mark’s thoughts were distracted by the movement of the crane again. This time, it was lowering a heavy load onto the foundation. As he watched the machine's careful descent, it struck him how much 'lower' had become a theme in his life recently. From the lowering of his hopes for this project to the lower temperature that had dropped by ten degrees in just an hour, everything seemed to be taking a downward turn. 'Perhaps we need to look at the bigger picture,' Sarah offered, walking over as the crane finished its task. 'We’ve got a strong foundation here, and even though everything feels lower right now, it doesn’t mean it’s all lost.' Mark paused and looked at the steel beam resting on the ground, still warm from the sun. Maybe Sarah was right. They could lower their expectations, adjust their approach, but they could also rise again, even from the lowest points. As they wrapped up the day’s work, Mark made a mental note to lower the stress levels he'd been carrying for far too long. Tomorrow was another day. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad after all.