(~es, ~ing, ~ed)
1.
When something ~es, or when something ~es it, it becomes reduced in size, importance, or intensity.
The threat of nuclear war has ~ed...
Federalism is intended to ~ the power of the central state...
Universities are facing grave problems because of ~ing resources...
This could mean ~ed public support for the war.
? increase
VERB: V, V n, V-ing, V-ed
2.
If you ~ someone or something, you talk about them or treat them in a way that makes them appear less important than they really are.
He never put her down or ~ed her...
VERB: V n