draw down
To take money out of a special account bit by bit, or to slowly reduce the number of soldiers or resources somewhere.
Meanings
To withdraw money from a fund, credit line, or account, usually incrementally.
"The company drew down $5 million from its credit facility to fund the expansion."
To reduce the size or presence of a military force in a region.
"The administration announced plans to draw down troops stationed overseas by the end of the year."
"We will begin to draw down our forces from Iraq."
— Barack Obama, Address on Iraq and Afghanistan, 2009
To reduce a supply or reserve by using it up over time.
"The long winter had drawn down the emergency food reserves faster than expected."
Primarily used in financial, military, and policy contexts. Very common in journalism and government reporting. In finance, it refers to accessing credit or a loan. In military contexts, it refers to reducing troop levels.
Commonly used with
Forms
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