downstate

noun

down·​state ˈdau̇n-ˌstāt How to pronounce downstate (audio)
: the chiefly southerly sections of a state
also : the chiefly rural part of a state when the major metropolitan area is to the north
downstate adjective or adverb
downstater noun

Examples of downstate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The latest: The Indiana House has passed two bills in recent weeks, one targeting downstate counties and another targeting Chicago sports teams. Justin Kaufmann, Axios, 7 Mar. 2025 Charged were, from left, Jay Doherty, the former head of the City Club of Chicago, ex-ComEd lobbyist John Hooker, Michael Madigan's longtime confidant, Michael McClain, of downstate Quincy, and former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore. Jason Meisner, Chicago Tribune, 3 Mar. 2025 The plan to move water from the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta downstate was nixed after environmental groups opposed it because of its potential impact on endangered salmon and smelt. Kevin Dolak, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 Jan. 2025 Madigan, 82, a Southwest Side Democrat, and his longtime confidant, Michael McClain, 77, of downstate Quincy, are charged in a 23-count indictment with racketeering conspiracy and other crimes related to Madigan’s record run as House speaker. Ray Long, Chicago Tribune, 12 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for downstate

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of downstate was in 1905

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Downstate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downstate. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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