Definition of the word settle down

The phrase "settle down" has been in use since the early 18th century in English language, and its origin comes from the verb "settle," which means to become quietly established or put something in a fixed position. The term "settle" itself can be traced back to the Middle English period when it referred to the process of dividing property or goods in a legal settlement. By the late 1500s, it started to be used in reference to adjusting oneself to a new place or situation. The expression "settle down" combines the ideas of settling and establishing with the concept of decreasing activity or excitement. It can take on various meanings in different contexts, but most commonly, it refers to the idea of settling into a domestic situation, such as marriage, parenthood, or homeownership, where a person begins to focus more on stability, responsibility, and a quieter lifestyle. The exact origin of the specific phrase "settle down" is unclear, but it is likely that the term emerged as a natural evolution of the earlier uses of the word "settle," reflecting the changing societal values and priorities of the time.