Search Dictionary
Definition of minimize

minimize

/ˈmɪnɪmaɪz/
(UK: minimise)
min · i · mize
Adverb:minimally
•
Adjective:minimal
•
Past Simple:minimized
•
Past Participle:minimized
•
Present Participle:minimizing
JUMP TO:

minimize Lexical Profile

minimize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To reduce something, especially something undesirable, to the smallest possible amount, extent, or degree.

Example

"Wearing a helmet and reflective gear can help cyclists minimize the risk of injury on busy roads."

2

To represent or estimate something as being less important, serious, or valuable than it actually is.

Example

"You should not minimize your accomplishments during the job interview, as the hiring committee wants to hear about your contributions."

3

To reduce an open window on a computer screen to a small icon or taskbar button without closing the program.

Example

"Please minimize your web browser so that you can see the spreadsheet on the desktop behind it."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for minimize
Antonyms
View all antonyms for minimize

• Nearby Words

minimarket
minimart
minimization
minimize
minimizer
minimoon
minimum

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 19th century by combining the Latin root 'minimus' (meaning 'smallest' or 'least', the superlative of 'parvus') with the verb-forming suffix '-ize'. Popularized in English by the philosopher Jeremy Bentham alongside 'maximize'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Minimize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/minimize
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.