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
Comfort: cycling infrastructure should allow for comfortable maneuvering and minimize the use of (precious) human energy.
—
Carlton Reid, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2025
Many native grasses and wildflowers have extensive root systems that grow deep and wide, helping minimize runoff and prevent erosion.
—Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Aug. 2025
After a catch was made in front of White, the cornerback had some difficulty bringing down the ball carrier to minimize the gain.
—Joe Buscaglia, New York Times, 10 Aug. 2025
Resource advisors have been working closely with firefighters to avoid cultural sites and to minimize disturbance to the rare plant habitat in the fire area.
—Ca Wildfire Bot, Sacbee.com, 10 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for minimize
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Carlton Reid, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2025
Many native grasses and wildflowers have extensive root systems that grow deep and wide, helping minimize runoff and prevent erosion.
—Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Aug. 2025
After a catch was made in front of White, the cornerback had some difficulty bringing down the ball carrier to minimize the gain.
—Joe Buscaglia, New York Times, 10 Aug. 2025
Resource advisors have been working closely with firefighters to avoid cultural sites and to minimize disturbance to the rare plant habitat in the fire area.
—Ca Wildfire Bot, Sacbee.com, 10 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for minimize
Cite this Entry
“Minimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimize. Accessed 26 Aug. 2025.
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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