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
For instance, in 2020, Hendon’s lab helped devise a mathematical model for brewing the perfect cup of espresso, over and over, while minimizing waste.
—
ArsTechnica, 28 Apr. 2026
It’s also accepted by the National Eczema Association, which means it’s been vetted to meet strict standards for products that minimize irritation and are safe for eczema-prone skin.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 28 Apr. 2026
Oklahoma's Republican attorney general has joined one of the lawsuits, alleging that State Farm has been running a secret scheme to deny and minimize payments for roof damage from hail and wind.
—Michael Copley, NPR, 28 Apr. 2026
Keep big upside, but minimize the downside, shown here.
—Michael Khouw, CNBC, 28 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for minimize
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ArsTechnica, 28 Apr. 2026
It’s also accepted by the National Eczema Association, which means it’s been vetted to meet strict standards for products that minimize irritation and are safe for eczema-prone skin.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 28 Apr. 2026
Oklahoma's Republican attorney general has joined one of the lawsuits, alleging that State Farm has been running a secret scheme to deny and minimize payments for roof damage from hail and wind.
—Michael Copley, NPR, 28 Apr. 2026
Keep big upside, but minimize the downside, shown here.
—Michael Khouw, CNBC, 28 Apr. 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 1 May. 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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