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
This holistic process minimizes delays, prevents budget overruns, and produces outcomes that meet aesthetic, regulatory, and performance goals.
—
Nia Bowers, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025
By using a system-wide translucent overlay similar to Archy and THE, the program was intended to minimize the need for switching back and forth between multiple applications to complete a task.
—Cameron Kaiser, ArsTechnica, 12 Sep. 2025
Our first responsibility is to honor our commitments and wind down in a way that minimizes harm from the rescission.
—Michael Schneider, Variety, 12 Sep. 2025
Like many of my favorite picks, these boots also utilize a wide toe box, minimizing blisters and maximizing comfort.
—Alice Bennett, Travel + Leisure, 11 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for minimize
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Nia Bowers, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025
By using a system-wide translucent overlay similar to Archy and THE, the program was intended to minimize the need for switching back and forth between multiple applications to complete a task.
—Cameron Kaiser, ArsTechnica, 12 Sep. 2025
Our first responsibility is to honor our commitments and wind down in a way that minimizes harm from the rescission.
—Michael Schneider, Variety, 12 Sep. 2025
Like many of my favorite picks, these boots also utilize a wide toe box, minimizing blisters and maximizing comfort.
—Alice Bennett, Travel + Leisure, 11 Sep. 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 14 Sep. 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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