Pronunciation: [tˈe͡ɪkda͡ʊn] (IPA) 
"Takedown" is spelled with two parts- "take" and "down". The first syllable "take" is pronounced with a long "a" sound as in "tayk" [teɪk], while the second syllable "down" is pronounced with a diphthong "ow" sound as in "d-ow-n" [daʊn]. The emphasis is on the first syllable "tayk". This word is commonly used in sports such as wrestling and martial arts to describe a move where an opponent is taken down to the ground.
Takedown is a noun that refers to the act or process of removing or subduing someone or something, typically in a forceful or decisive manner. It can also be used as an adjective to describe the method or strategy employed for this purpose.
In the context of sports, takedown commonly refers to a technique used in various combat sports or wrestling, where one competitor successfully brings their opponent from a standing position to the ground, gaining control over them. This can involve tackles, throws, or other maneuvers to immobilize or pin the opponent, often earning points or securing victory in a match.
In law enforcement and military contexts, takedown refers to an operation conducted to apprehend criminals or enemy combatants. It usually involves a planned and coordinated effort by a team of officers or soldiers to neutralize threats, arrest suspects, or dismantle criminal organizations.
Takedown can also be used colloquially to describe exposing the weaknesses or flaws of an argument, theory, or belief, thereby discrediting or disproving it. This often involves presenting evidence or arguments that undermine the credibility or validity of the subject in question.
Overall, takedown encompasses the idea of bringing someone or something down, whether it be physically, structurally, or figuratively, through force, strategic planning, or argumentation.
The term "takedown" primarily stems from the combination of the words "take" and "down". Its etymology can be traced back to the Old English word "tacan", meaning to grasp, seize, or capture, and the word "dūn", which means a hill or mound. Over time, the phrase "take down" emerged as a verb phrase, used to describe actions such as capturing or seizing something or someone, bringing them to the ground, or undermining their authority. In modern usage, "takedown" is often used to refer to various kinds of actions where someone or something is forcefully brought down, defeated, or removed from a position of power or dominance.
