min·i·mize / ˈminəˌmīz/ • v. [tr.] reduce (something, esp. something unwanted or unpleasant) to the smallest possible amount or degree: the aim is to minimize costs. ∎  represent or estimate at less than the true value or importance: they may minimize, or even overlook, the importance of such beliefs.DERIVATIVES: min·i·mi·za·tion / ˌminəməˈzāshən / n.min·i·miz·er n.

minimize In a graphical user interface, to cause a window to contract down to an icon, normally close to one edge of the screen. The action is achieved by clicking on the minimize button or selecting “minimize” from a window control menu.