slow down

verb slows down · slowing down · slowed down

1. intransitive To decelerate. When approaching a bend in the road, slow down, and speed up after leaving it.
2. transitive To reduce the velocity, speed, or tempo of something. With a comfortable lead, the football team slowed down the tempo of the game.
3. figuratively, intransitive, transitive To become less intense, enthusiastic, etc., usually with a positive connotation, implying that one is stripped of exaggerated or unnecessary eagerness. Whoa, slow down there, bucko. Everyone will get a chance. Be patient.