minimize
verb
min·i·mize
ˈmi-nə-ˌmīz 
minimized; minimizing
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
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
That's why ignoring minor misbehavior (as long as no one is being harmed) and praising positive choices is one of the most effective ways to manage and minimize attention-seeking behaviors.1
2.
—
Amy Morin, Parents, 7 July 2025
These workshops taught cognitive skills aimed at maximizing the strengths and minimizing the weaknesses typically associated with their specific most strongly outlying trait.
—Maia Szalavitz, Scientific American, 7 July 2025
The best way to minimize heat damage from your hot tools is to stick with low to medium heat and adjust the speed as needed.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 5 July 2025
His company, Recology, processes organic waste from cities and municipalities across the Bay Area, Central Valley, Northern California, Oregon and Washington — part of a growing movement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing food waste in landfills.
—Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for minimize
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Amy Morin, Parents, 7 July 2025
These workshops taught cognitive skills aimed at maximizing the strengths and minimizing the weaknesses typically associated with their specific most strongly outlying trait.
—Maia Szalavitz, Scientific American, 7 July 2025
The best way to minimize heat damage from your hot tools is to stick with low to medium heat and adjust the speed as needed.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 5 July 2025
His company, Recology, processes organic waste from cities and municipalities across the Bay Area, Central Valley, Northern California, Oregon and Washington — part of a growing movement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing food waste in landfills.
—Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for minimize
Cite this Entry
“Minimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimize. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
minimize
verb
min·i·mize
ˈmin-ə-ˌmīz
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
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