minimize

American  

[min-uh-mahyz] / ˈmɪn əˌmaɪz /

especially British, minimise

verb (used with object)

minimized, minimizing

1. to reduce to the smallest possible amount or degree.

2. to represent at the lowest possible amount, value, importance, influence, etc., especially in a disparaging way; belittle.

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minimize British  

/ ˈmɪnɪˌmaɪz /

verb

1. to reduce to or estimate at the least possible degree or amount

   to minimize a risk

2. to rank or treat at less than the true worth; belittle

   to minimize someone's achievements

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Other Word Forms

• minimization noun
• minimizer noun
• unminimized adjective
• unminimizing adjective

Etymology

Origin of minimize

First recorded in 1795–1805; minim(um) + -ize

Example Sentences

WSJ | Buy Side: Tax planning advisers help clients minimize liability, navigate complex tax rules and integrate tax-efficient strategies into their financial plans.

From The Wall Street Journal

“We can minimize sensory input. ... That might be the difference between them being able to stay calm and them taking off.”

From Los Angeles Times

"These racetrack curves minimize bending loss," said Won Park, Sheppard Professor of Electrical Engineering and a co advisor on the project.

From Science Daily

They learn how to minimize the use of force when carrying out arrests.

From The Wall Street Journal

I’m not going to tell you to stop taking pictures, but I can help you minimize your digital hoarding.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• curtail
• decrease
• diminish
• downplay
• lessen
• play down
• reduce
• trivialize
• underestimate