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

Wu said there are cleaning protocols hospitals and long-term care facilities can use to minimize potential spread of the fungus. — Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 10 Aug. 2026

Conduct yourself in a way that minimizes unnecessary harm to innocent people. — Jann Blackstone, Boston Herald, 9 Aug. 2026

Nailing her intricate double front pass, Blakely performed three front-tumbling passes to minimize wear on her ankles. — Caroline Price, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2026

However, having an emergency fund or additional savings beyond the minimum can help cover unexpected costs and minimize financial stress. — Deane Biermeier, USA Today, 8 Aug. 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