Definition
To make or attempt to make something seem less important, likely, or obvious.
In Context
- "The essay attempts to play down the role slavery had in the Civil War."
- "The senator played down the threat of a recession."
- "During the wave of anti-immigrant sentiment, Miguel played down his immigrant status by removing Chicano patois from his speech and adopting the nickname "Mike.""
- "Reports that the project is in trouble have been circulating for many months and have been played down by officials."