Step down Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Voluntary Action Usually a personal choice, not forced by others. After years of service, the mayor stepped down voluntarily. Pro Tip 2/3Public Announcement Often involves a public statement or formal announcement. The minister stepped down during a press conference. Pro Tip 3/3Responsibility Transfer Implies handing over responsibilities to someone else. She stepped down, and her deputy took over her duties.