reduced

American  

[ri-doost, -dyoost] / rɪˈdust, -ˈdyust /

adjective

1. made smaller, lower, or less; diminished.

   Individuals who experience depression have reduced levels of serotonin in their brains.

2. Mathematics. noting a polynomial equation in which the second highest power is missing.

   The cubic equation x3 − 4x + 4 = 0 is reduced.

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Other Word Forms

• nonreduced adjective
• quasi-reduced adjective
• unreduced adjective

Etymology

Origin of reduced

First recorded in 1620–30; reduce + -ed ²

Example Sentences

In testing, the artificial saliva spray reduced bacterial activity and slowed tooth demineralization -- the process by which teeth lose calcium and phosphate, making them more vulnerable to cavities.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

If you retired at 62, a $1,000 benefit would be reduced by 30%, according to the Social Security Administration.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

Postal Service, which last year reduced the number of trips to pick up mail at post offices in mostly rural areas.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

As the Lindgren siblings stumble into adulthood, they are often reduced to the level of animals who seek contentment in the proximity of other warm bodies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Shackleton reduced the water ration to half a cup a day.

From "Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World" by Jennifer Armstrong

Related Words

• decreased
• diminished
• shortened