Main Entry: re·duce

Pronunciation: \ri-ˈd(y)üs\

Function: verb

Inflected Form(s): re·duced; re·duc·ing

transitive verb

1 : to correct (as a fracture or a herniated mass) by bringing displaced or broken parts back into their normal positions
2 a : to bring to the metallic state by removal of nonmetallic elements <reduce an ore by heat> b : deoxidize c : to combine with or subject to the action of hydrogen d (1) : to change (an element or ion) from a higher to a lower oxidation state (2) : to add one or more electrons to (an atom or ion or molecule)

intransitive verb

1 : to become diminished or lessened ; especially : to lose weight by dieting
2 : to become reduced <ferrous iron reduces to ferric iron>
3 : to undergo meiosis