Minimize

Definition

Minimize means to reduce or decrease to the smallest possible extent, amount, or degree.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪnɪˌmaɪz/
• Respelling: MIN-uh-myz (with "MIN" as in "mint," "uh" as in "sofa," and "myz" as in "wise")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪnɪmaɪz/
• Respelling: MIN-uh-myz (with "MIN" as in "mint," "uh" as in "sofa," and "myz" as in "wise")

In both dialects, "minimize" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "MIN." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "MIN-uh-myz."

Etymology

The term "minimize" originates from the Latin word "minimus," meaning "smallest." It was later combined with the suffix "-ize," which suggests the action of making something have a particular characteristic. The term began its use in English in the early 19th century, indicating the act of reducing something to its smallest proportion or degree.

Derivatives

• Minimizer
• Minimization
• Minimized
• Minimizing
• Minimizable

Synonyms

• Reduce
• Diminish
• Lessen

Antonyms

• Maximize
• Amplify
• Increase

Usage

"Minimize" is commonly utilized to indicate the act of making something smaller, less significant, or less prominent.

• It's essential to minimize risks while investing in stocks.
• The company aims to minimize its environmental impact by adopting sustainable practices.

Related Terms

• Minimum
• Minimus
• Minimal
• Minimally
• Minimization

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Amount/Quantity: To reduce something, especially intentionally, to the smallest possible level or amount.‍
• Example: The organization's main goal is to minimize waste.

• Importance/Effect: To cause something to seem less important or less serious than it really is.‍
• Example: Don't minimize the impact of your contributions to the project.

• Computer/Technology: In computing, to reduce a window to an icon or to a line at the bottom of a screen.‍
• Example: If you're not using the application right now, just minimize it.