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
Home cooks are often advised to chill their onions before cutting them to minimize crying.
—
Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 May 2025
Effective targeting minimizes waste and builds consumer loyalty.
—Ray Lansigan, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
Here are tips on how to stay safe 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 Weather Bot, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 May 2025
And, of course, the research will help NASA improve its clean room protocols to minimize the risk of biological contamination on future missions.
—Stefanie Waldek, Space.com, 18 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for minimize
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Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 May 2025
Effective targeting minimizes waste and builds consumer loyalty.
—Ray Lansigan, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
Here are tips on how to stay safe 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 Weather Bot, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 May 2025
And, of course, the research will help NASA improve its clean room protocols to minimize the risk of biological contamination on future missions.
—Stefanie Waldek, Space.com, 18 May 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 24 May. 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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