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 So, the transformation must be both rapid and sustainable, featuring planning and implementation that avoids and minimizes risks and negative impacts. Jeff Opperman, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024 Dikmen said this minimizes the number of tanks required in production and utilizes certified green chemicals, allowing Soorty to significantly reduce its water use and produce wastewater with no residues so it can be easily recycled. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 22 Oct. 2024 To minimize air exposure and prevent freezer burn, use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 22 Oct. 2024 The move was intended to minimize disruptions to theater events. Kale Williams, Axios, 21 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for minimize 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of minimize was in 1825

Dictionary Entries Near minimize

Cite this Entry

“Minimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimize. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!