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.
In contrast, the single-bore method minimizes street-level disruption. Dan Phan, The Mercury News, 12 Nov. 2024 This method, which is based on the idea of moving to where the hottest deer sign and action can be found, is used by many hunters who decide to minimize their hunting gear footprint and overall carry weight. Josh Honeycutt, Outdoor Life, 7 Nov. 2024 Maricopa, Pima, Coconino and other counties shared insights from those discussions among themselves to coordinate efforts to minimize lines. Sasha Hupka, The Arizona Republic, 6 Nov. 2024 To minimize risk, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises hunters in CWD-positive regions to test their game before consuming it. Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 5 Nov. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near minimize

Cite this Entry

“Minimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimize. Accessed 22 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

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