1. to reduce the power rating or capacity of equipment or machinery below its maximum potential
Usage: technical; engineering

Examples

• The engineer derates the motor to prevent overheating in high-temperature environments.
• The manufacturer derates the generator when operating at high altitudes.
• Safety regulations require that we derate the transformer by 20 percent.
• The system automatically derates power output when cooling is insufficient.
• They decided to derate the equipment to extend its operational lifespan.
• The technician derates the circuit breaker for continuous operation.