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
To try to minimize costs, Gaspar unplugs his computer, coffee maker and other electronics when not in use and keeps the thermostat at 64 degrees.
—
Tami Luhby, CNN Money, 12 Feb. 2026
As states design and implement Medicaid work requirements, policymakers must explicitly recognize family caregiving as legitimate community engagement, create clear caregiver exemptions, and minimize administrative barriers that threaten coverage.
—Emily D. Tisdale, STAT, 12 Feb. 2026
Use curtains, blackout shades, and UV-blocking window film to minimize sun damage.
—Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 11 Feb. 2026
The report emphasizes that machines are designed to minimize the use of water and to reduce energy consumption without compromising the quality of the final product.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 11 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for minimize
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Tami Luhby, CNN Money, 12 Feb. 2026
As states design and implement Medicaid work requirements, policymakers must explicitly recognize family caregiving as legitimate community engagement, create clear caregiver exemptions, and minimize administrative barriers that threaten coverage.
—Emily D. Tisdale, STAT, 12 Feb. 2026
Use curtains, blackout shades, and UV-blocking window film to minimize sun damage.
—Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 11 Feb. 2026
The report emphasizes that machines are designed to minimize the use of water and to reduce energy consumption without compromising the quality of the final product.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 11 Feb. 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 14 Feb. 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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