minimize

especially British, min·i·mise

[min-uh-mahyz]

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.

minimize

/ 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

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of minimize¹

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

Example Sentences

Ford has said it is working closely with Novelis, owner of the damaged aluminum plant, while also exploring “all possible alternatives to minimize any potential disruptions.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

If proven safe and effective, it could become a way to treat a wide range of cancers while minimizing harm to healthy cells.

Read more on Science Daily

Sasaki was urged by his agent to minimize financial considerations when picking a team.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Forest Service, and which he held for more than two decades—Pistono educated skiers about the hazards they faced and ways to minimize risks to themselves and others.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Dominguez is taking clear steps to make the most of that market and, equally important, to minimize the risks.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

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