minimize
/ˈmɪn.ɪ.maɪz/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: minimizes · minimizing · minimized
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To make (something) smaller or as small as possible; shrink; reduce.
Verb
Examples
We have to minimize the budget.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To relegate or assign (something) to a less insignificant status; diminish.
Verb
Examples
The insurance adjuster tried to minimize the extent of the damage to lessen the company's exposure to liability.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “minimize” mean?
To make (something) smaller or as small as possible; shrink; reduce.
Is “minimize” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.