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

“The fact that these dumbfounding transfers in the middle of the night cause chaos, confusion, and minimizes access to legal representation does not seem to bother them one bit,” he said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times

Spearheaded by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the measure sought to bring balance to legislative races by taking redistricting away from lawmakers, who tended to draw the state’s political lines to suit their interests and minimize competition.

From Los Angeles Times

As the New York Times explained in June, among other things, the president is seeking to “minimize, ignore or even erase some of the experiences and history of Black people in the United States.”

From Salon

During the hearing, Barton said he was concerned about the number of support letters that refer to Menendez as a model inmate, saying it could minimize the impact of cellphones in the prison.

From Los Angeles Times

But part of the company’s legal strategy has been focused on minimizing the damage claims.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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