minimize

[ min-uh-mahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, min·i·mized, min·i·miz·ing.

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

Derived Forms

• ˈminiˌmizer, noun
• ˌminimiˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• mini·mi·zation noun
• mini·mizer noun
• un·mini·mized adjective
• un·mini·mizing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of minimize¹

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

Example Sentences

In the weeks and months that followed the Woolsey fire, there was much debate about whether anything could have been done to minimize the extent of the devastation.

From Los Angeles Times

Newsom’s office said “a pardon grant recognizes the grantee’s self-development and accountability after conviction,” but does not erase a conviction or seek to minimize the harm caused by the recipient.

From Los Angeles Times

Pacific Gas & Electric and Southern California Edison are expected to shut off power for up to 240,000 customers in order to minimize potential fire starts amid the dry, gusty weather.

From Los Angeles Times

“What bothers me, people young and old try to minimize you by saying, ‘Well, Quincy’s strongest suit is that he’s got a strong telephone book ... and he can just call up anybody!’ ” he said in 2001.

From Los Angeles Times

The question is how to minimize the stress.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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