minimize

1 of 2

verb

min·​i·​mize ˈmi-nə-ˌmīz 

minimized; minimizing

transitive verb

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

minimization

ˌmi-nə-mə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

minimizer

ˈmi-nə-ˌmī-zər 

noun

minimization

2 of 2

noun

min·​i·​mi·​za·​tion

variants also British minimisation

ˌminəmə̇ˈzāshən

plural -s

: the action or process of minimizing

interested primarily in the minimization of governmental activity

—E. E. Schattschneider

Synonyms of minimize

Verb

• dismiss
• diminish

Examples of minimize in a Sentence

Verb

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

Verb

Mixsoon Bean Collagen Hydrogel Mask Unlike traditional cotton or cellulose sheet masks, Mixsoon's Bean Collagen Hydrogel Mask molds closely to the skin, helping minimize evaporation and maximize ingredient absorption. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 24 June 2026

These ingredients minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a more bouncy complexion. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 23 June 2026

The robot is designed for 24/7 operation, with autonomous charging and hot-swappable dual batteries minimizing downtime. —Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 23 June 2026

For Straight, Hydrated Strands Wavytalk The steam technology in this straightening tool infuses moisture into your hair, reduces frizz and minimizes heat damage while delivering sleek, pin-straight results. —V Brand Stories, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1825, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for minimize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize
• butterflies

Kids 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