VocabDictionary

done down

/dʌn daʊn/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Belittled, criticized unfairly, or defrauded and cheated out of what is rightfully owed.

Example Sentences:
  • She felt completely done down after her boss took credit for all her hard work.
  • The small business owners felt done down by the new regulations favoring massive corporations.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “done down”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb phrase 'do down', which originated in British slang during the late 19th century. 'Do' in this context carries the archaic or colloquial meaning of cheating, swindling, or treating harshly (akin to 'done in' or 'done over'), combined with the directional particle 'down' to signify lowering someone's status, worth, or fortune.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of someone being 'done' (finished or tricked) and pushed 'down' in the world.

Common Collocations & Phrases

Frequently Asked Questions About “done down

1. What is the meaning of “done down” in English?

In English, done down (adjective) is defined as: “Belittled, criticized unfairly, or defrauded and cheated out of what is rightfully owed.”.

2. How do you use “done down” in a sentence?

She felt completely done down after her boss took credit for all her hard work.

3. What are English synonyms of “done down”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “done down”?

Derived from the verb phrase 'do down', which originated in British slang during the late 19th century. 'Do' in this context carries the archaic or colloquial meaning of cheating, swindling, or treating harshly (akin to 'done in' or 'done over'), combined with the directional particle 'down' to signify lowering someone's status, worth, or fortune.