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[Elamur Dictionary](https://md.dictionary.elamur.ai/free/en/) · [this page in HTML](https://dictionary.elamur.ai/free/en/english/put-down/)

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# put down

phrasal verb (put down, puts down, put down, putting down)

«put down» in the English dictionary: in the primary school — its meanings, how the lessons use it, and examples, each with its tree on Mova.

## In the primary school

Source: Mova's pupils' dictionary. Licence: [Elamur Cosmic License](https://mova.elamur.ai/free/en/docs/LICENSE/). Reviewed: the dictionary the pupils of Mova's primary school read; its examples quote the lessons and public-domain tales. Ships with Mova.

### Meaning

1. (literal) place something on a surface.
2. (euphemism, everyday) kill an animal gently, usually by a vet, because it is ill, old or dangerous.
3. (informal) say unkind things to make someone feel small.
4. (literal) write something; end a rebellion; pay a deposit.

### In the lessons

Vets, families and news use it about ending an animal's life kindly; in other senses it is everyday English. Everyday register, all English-speaking countries.

### Examples

- Put down your pencils, please.
- Our old dog had to be put down by the vet.
- Stop putting your brother down!
- The horse was put down after it broke its leg.
- Put down your name on the list.
- We put down a deposit on the holiday.
- The army put down the rebellion.

### Note

Many senses; context decides. For pets it means death, so be gentle. Plain words: kill (an animal), insult, place.