v.
1. tr. & intr. make or become smaller or less.
2 tr. lessen the reputation or influence of (a person).
Phrases and idioms:
law of diminishing returns Econ. the fact that the increase of expenditure, investment, taxation, etc., beyond a certain point ceases to produce a proportionate yield.
Derivatives:
diminishable adj.
Etymology: ME, blending of earlier minish f. OF menusier (formed as MINCE) and diminue f. OF diminuer f. L diminuere diminut- break up small