Minimize

/ˈmɪnɪmaɪz/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to reduce (something) to the smallest possible amount or degree.
We need to minimize expenses in order to stay within budget.
to consider or portray as being less important or serious than it actually is.
The company tried to minimize the severity of the incident in its public statements.
to make the smallest possible; to make as small as possible.
In order to minimize the risk of accidents, safety protocols were implemented.

Etymology

From Latin 'minimus', meaning 'smallest'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

minimize risks:
to reduce the chances of loss or harm
minimize costs:
to lower expenses
minimize clutter:
to reduce unnecessary items or mess

Related Words

Slang Meanings

to downplay
Stop minimizing your achievements; you worked hard for them.
to make something seem less important
He was just minimizing the situation to make it sound better.