The spelling of "quiets down" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. The first syllable "qui-" is pronounced as /kwahy/ with the "q" making a "kw" sound, followed by the "u" pronounced as a "w" sound. The second syllable "-et" is pronounced as /ɛt/ with a short "e" sound and a "t" sound. The final syllable "-s down" is pronounced as /z daʊn/ with a "z" sound, the "d" sound, and then the "ow" sound pronouncing "down."
Quiets down is a phrasal verb that refers to the action of becoming or making something become quieter, calmer, or less noisy. It implies the reduction or cessation of noise, disturbance, or commotion, leading to a peaceful or tranquil environment.
Used intransitively, quiets down describes a process or state in which a noisy or frenzied situation, group of individuals, or an individual becomes silent or calm. For example, in a classroom, students may quiet down after a teacher's instruction to stop talking. In a sports stadium, the crowd may quiet down during a moment of silence.
Used transitively, quiets down indicates an action of bringing about quietness or calmness. This can involve calming a restless group, pacifying a noisy individual, or diminishing the volume or intensity of a sound. For instance, a parent may quiet down a crying baby by gently rocking or singing to them. A police officer may use their authority to quiet down an agitated crowd during a protest.
Overall, the phrase "quiets down" implies a change from a state of noise, agitation, or disturbance to a state of calmness, tranquility, or silence. It signifies the process or action of reducing or eliminating noise or commotion, either willingly or through external factors.
The word "quiets down" is a phrasal verb derived from the combination of the verb "quiet" and the adverb "down".
The word "quiet" originated from the Old French word "quiete" or "cuite", which meant "peace" or "calm". It was derived from the Latin word "quietus" meaning "rest" or "tranquility". The Old French term was adopted into Middle English as "quiet", still meaning "quiet" or "calm".
The adverb "down" derives from the Old English word "dūne" or "dūn", which meant "from a higher to a lower level or position". Eventually, it became used to indicate a decrease in intensity or activity.