English Reference
noun

depression

n.
US /dɪˈpɹɛʃən/ UK /dɪpɹˈɛʃən/ de·pres·sion UK spelling depression's, depression's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Economics

    a long and difficult time when a country has very little business activity and many people lose their jobs.

    a sustained, long-term downturn in economic activity in one or more economies; more severe than a recession.

    Simple

    During the great economic depression of the 1930s, many families struggled to buy food.

    In context

    Economists still debate whether the current fiscal crisis will stabilise or descend into a full-scale depression similar to that of the previous century.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    an area of low air pressure that often brings clouds and rain.

    an atmospheric region of relatively low pressure, typically associated with unsettled weather and precipitation.

    Simple

    The weather forecast said a deep depression was moving in from the Atlantic.

    In context

    As the tropical depression intensified over the warm ocean waters, meteorologists upgraded the warning to a hurricane watch.

    low pressure systemcyclone
    anticyclone
  3. 03 C2 Proficiency FormalTechnical

    the act of pushing something down.

    the physical act of pressing a part or lever downwards.

    Simple

    The depression of the key on the piano produces a clear, ringing note.

    In context

    The rapid depression of the brake pedal caused the vehicle to skid on the icy surface.

Usage depression scale · severe depression

Neuroimaging suggests that those with depression struggle to switch out of the DMN-heavy, rumination mode.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

He has had depression in the past and still takes medication.

The Guardian· 11 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated