minimize

verb

min·​i·​mize ˈmi-nə-ˌmīz How to pronounce minimize (audio)
minimized; minimizing

transitive verb

1
: to reduce or keep to a minimum
minimize costs
minimize delays
2
: to underestimate intentionally : play down, soft-pedal
minimizing losses in our own forces while maximizing those of the enemy
3
: to replace (a window) on a computer display with a small button or icon which will restore the window when selected
minimization noun
minimizer noun

Examples of minimize in a Sentence

We need to minimize the chance of error. The company will work to minimize costs. I don't want to minimize the contributions he has made to the company. During the interview, she minimized her weaknesses and emphasized her strengths. Please minimize all open windows.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Such programs help ensure that employees behave ethically and minimize disruptions to business operations—an attractive feature for building and maintaining intercompany relationships. Robert Anello, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025 Regular use helps to minimize the appearance of pores, reduce dryness, and create a smoother, more polished look.3 8. Sohaib Imtiaz, Verywell Health, 21 Mar. 2025 And in 2017, Stephen Miller, Trump’s senior policy advisor, minimized the significance of the poem. Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 20 Mar. 2025 If revenue enhancements become necessary, they should be structured to minimize impact on residents with fixed or limited incomes. Courier-News, Chicago Tribune, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for minimize

Word History

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of minimize was in 1825

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Cite this Entry

“Minimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimize. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

minimize

verb
min·​i·​mize ˈmin-ə-ˌmīz How to pronounce minimize (audio)
minimized; minimizing
1
: to make as small as possible
minimize the chance of error
2
a
: to place a low estimate on
minimized their losses
b
: to make (something) seem little or unimportant : belittle
minimized their opponent's victory
3
: to replace (a window) on a computer display with a small button or icon which will restore the window when selected

More from Merriam-Webster on minimize

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