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

By analyzing changes in tumor mutations and monitoring cancer biomarkers in bodily fluids, these techniques can help oncologists know when to change tactics and slow the evolution of drug-resistant cells while minimizing toxic side effects.

From Science Daily

And earlier this year, Sargent's group incorporated liquid crystals to minimize the defects in perovskite films, leading to enhanced device performance.

From Science Daily

Lurie doesn’t minimize the role of his family’s wealth in his successes.

From Los Angeles Times

"Our findings highlight the importance of identifying patients with high-risk who are most likely to benefit from heart protection, and therefore, minimize unnecessary side effects and health care costs for low-risk people," Bonatto said.

From Science Daily

"Our team started spiking a range of carefully selected small molecules to the plasma with the aim of minimizing the interactions of highly abundant proteins with nanoparticles," Mahmoudi said.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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