reduce

re·duce

verb \ri-ˈd(y)üs\

re·ducedre·duc·ing

Definition of REDUCE

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