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
Other actions to reduce risk include avoiding exposure during peak feeding times at dusk and dawn, wearing long sleeves and pants to prevent mosquito bites, and draining standing water in yards and gardens to minimize breeding areas.
—
Christa Swanson, CBS News, 17 June 2026
Following the recommendations from the NWS helps bolster your safety during air quality alerts, minimizing your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants.
—Southern California Weather Report, Oc Register, 16 June 2026
The cause of the fire is under investigation, and crews were working to minimize water damage to electronics inside the church, the spokesperson said.
—Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 June 2026
When minimized, these bubbles stay on top of other apps.
—ArsTechnica, 16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for minimize
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Christa Swanson, CBS News, 17 June 2026
Following the recommendations from the NWS helps bolster your safety during air quality alerts, minimizing your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants.
—Southern California Weather Report, Oc Register, 16 June 2026
The cause of the fire is under investigation, and crews were working to minimize water damage to electronics inside the church, the spokesperson said.
—Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 June 2026
When minimized, these bubbles stay on top of other apps.
—ArsTechnica, 16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for minimize
Cite this Entry
“Minimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimize. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.
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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