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
Synonyms
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
Our limited newsletter series guides you on how to minimize your personal role in the climate crisis — and reduce your eco-anxiety.
—
Sandee Lamotte, CNN, 10 Apr. 2024
This can help minimize any disruptions within your team, especially if you’re not ultimately selected for the transfer.
—Johnny C. Taylor Jr., USA TODAY, 9 Apr. 2024
Here are recommendations for maintaining safety during a thunderstorm:
• To minimize risk of being struck by lightning, when going outside, have a plan to get to a safer place.
—Star-Telegram Bot, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Apr. 2024
Women’s pain is all too frequently ignored or simply minimized as women being hysterical or overly dramatic.
—Dr. Sharon Malone, TIME, 9 Apr. 2024
The video covers having the proper equipment for large fish, minimizing the time the fish is out of the water, protecting the fish’s slime coating, holding the large fish horizontally to support the fish’s body and releasing the fish properly.
—Forum News Service, Twin Cities, 4 Apr. 2024
When taken consistently, CBD oil can boost metabolism, reduce your appetite, and even minimize pain.
—Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024
Avoid public Wi-Fi To minimize the risk of data interception by cyber criminals, use a virtual private network (VPN) or your mobile data instead of public Wi-Fi networks.
—Ebony Flake, Essence, 3 Apr. 2024
Look beyond trying to minimize damage and be net positive.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024
Sandee Lamotte, CNN, 10 Apr. 2024
This can help minimize any disruptions within your team, especially if you’re not ultimately selected for the transfer.
—Johnny C. Taylor Jr., USA TODAY, 9 Apr. 2024
Here are recommendations for maintaining safety during a thunderstorm:
• To minimize risk of being struck by lightning, when going outside, have a plan to get to a safer place.
—Star-Telegram Bot, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Apr. 2024
Women’s pain is all too frequently ignored or simply minimized as women being hysterical or overly dramatic.
—Dr. Sharon Malone, TIME, 9 Apr. 2024
The video covers having the proper equipment for large fish, minimizing the time the fish is out of the water, protecting the fish’s slime coating, holding the large fish horizontally to support the fish’s body and releasing the fish properly.
—Forum News Service, Twin Cities, 4 Apr. 2024
When taken consistently, CBD oil can boost metabolism, reduce your appetite, and even minimize pain.
—Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024
Avoid public Wi-Fi To minimize the risk of data interception by cyber criminals, use a virtual private network (VPN) or your mobile data instead of public Wi-Fi networks.
—Ebony Flake, Essence, 3 Apr. 2024
Look beyond trying to minimize damage and be net positive.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'minimize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1825, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Dictionary Entries Near minimize
Cite this Entry
“Minimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimize. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.
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Kids 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
More from Merriam-Webster on minimize
Nglish: Translation of minimize for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of minimize for Arabic Speakers
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