The recognition, in the acccounts, of the dimunition of the value of an asset....more on Write down
To reduce the value of an asset or holding on the balance sheet to reflect its current market value. An accounting action sometimes used to reflect the effect of depreciation on the book value of an asset
Reducing the book value of an asset if its is overstated compared to current market values.
Decreasing the book value of an asset if its book value is overstated compared to current market values. 
The procedure used when a specialist makes a trade involving his own inventory, on one hand, and a f
Accounting action that reduces the value of an asset on a balance... <a target=_blank href='http://www.finance-glossary.com/terms/write-down.htm?id=13078&ginPtrCode=00000&PopupMode=false' title='Read full definition of write down'>more</a>
[v] - put down in writing
get down verb put down in writing; of texts, musical compositions, etc.