minimize
UK[ˈmɪn.ɪ.maɪz]US[ˈmɪn.ə.maɪz]
v
to reduce something to the smallest possible amount or degree.
v
to make something seem less important or serious than it really is.
Morpheme Breakdown
minim
ize
minim
smallest
ize
verb suffix
Etymology
the word "minimize" is a modern english formation built upon classical components. its core, "minim," derives directly from the latin superlative adjective minimus, meaning "smallest" or "least," which itself originates from the proto-indo-european root mei-, conveying the sense of "small." this root is joined with the productive verb-forming suffix "-ize," borrowed via latin from the greek -izein, which denotes causing an action or state. thus, the literal construction "to make smallest" logically evolved into the modern abstract meanings of reducing something to its least possible amount or, figuratively, downplaying its significance.
Analysis
Structure: minim (smallest) + ize (verb suffix)
minim (from latin minimus, meaning "smallest, least") + ize (from greek -izein via latin -izare, a verb-forming suffix meaning "to make, to become").
Examples
we need to minimize the risk of infection by washing our hands regularly.
the company is taking steps to minimize its environmental impact.
he tried to minimize his role in the mistake, but the evidence was clear.