Idiom

Dial down

What does "Dial down" mean?

1. Adjust a device to reduce sound or temperature. 2. Reduce one's emotional reaction to something.

USA, late 20th century.

Meaning 1. Adjust a device to reduce sound or temperature. 2. Reduce one's emotional reaction to something.

Example

1. It's boiling in here. Just dial down the thermostat would you? 2. Okay, so your favourite didn't win X-Factor. No need to bite the carpet - just dial it down a notch.

Pronunciation