a downward stroke, as of a machine part, piston, or the like
2.
a downward stroke in writing, often heavier and darker than an upward stroke
Word origin
[1850–55; down1 + stroke1]This word is first recorded in the period 1850–55. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: boneyard, ethylene, headhunting, heavyweight, proletariat
Examples of 'downstroke' in a sentence
downstroke
I lifted it high as if to gain force for a downstroke into the ground.
Brierley, David SKORPION'S DEATH
My forearms ached relentlessly, my back throbbed and my legs turned to liquid with every downstroke of the pedals.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
It shows that whereas birds generate thrust using only the downstroke of their wings bats use the upstroke as well.