Phrasal verb
cool down
To cool down means to become less hot or to become calmer after being angry or excited.
Meanings
To become less hot; to lose heat.
To become calmer after being angry, excited, or stressed.
To do gentle exercise after intense activity so your body gradually returns to normal.
Definition
To cool down can describe a temperature dropping, such as food, weather, or a room becoming less hot. It can also describe a person becoming calmer after strong emotions or after intense activity. In both cases, the idea is moving from a high level (heat or intensity) to a lower, more comfortable level.
Examples
- I need a few minutes to cool down before we talk again.
- The tea is too hot, so let it cool down on the table.
- She went for a short walk to cool down after the argument.
- They did a light jog to cool down after practice.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes say "cool down me" when they mean "cool me down" (the object goes between the verb and particle).