1 B2 neutral
Of a machine or system: to automatically turn off at a set point in its programmed operation cycle.
"The air conditioner will cycle off once the room reaches the target temperature."
inseparable
cycle off
B2 neutral inseparable transitive/intransitive
To (cause a device or system to) automatically turn off as part of a repeated operational cycle.
In plain English
When a machine stops working for a while as part of its normal on-off pattern.
What does "cycle off" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
To deliberately power down a device or system through a controlled cycling procedure, especially to reset or cool it.
"The technician cycled off the pump before performing maintenance."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To go through a cycle and then switch off.
Actually means
When a machine stops working for a while as part of its normal on-off pattern.
Usage tip
Chiefly used in technical and engineering contexts — HVAC systems, refrigeration units, industrial machinery. Also used in computing for scheduled power states. More common in American English technical writing.
Words that pair with "cycle off"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
compressor system unit relay thermostat motor
How to conjugate "cycle off"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
cycle off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
cycles off
he/she/it
Past simple
cycled off
yesterday
Past participle
cycled off
have + pp
-ing form
cycling off
continuous
Hear "cycle off" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "cycle off" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.