Diminish Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary (original) (raw)

Britannica Dictionary definition of DIMINISH

1

:

to become or to cause (something) to become less in size, importance, etc.

[+ object]

• The passing years did nothing to diminish [=decrease, _lessen_] their friendship.
• The strength of the army was greatly diminished by outbreaks of disease.

[no object]

• My interest in the subject has steadily diminished. [=_dwindled_]
• The drug's side effects should diminish over time.

2

[+ object]

:

to lessen the authority or reputation of (someone or something)

• Nothing could diminish the importance of his contributions.

:

to describe (something) as having little value or importance

• I don't mean to diminish [=belittle, _disparage_] her accomplishments.

— diminishment

/dəˈmɪnɪʃmənt/

noun

[noncount]

• the diminishment of her reputation