dɪˈmɪnɪʃ v. 1 tr. & intr.
make or
become smaller or
less. 2 tr.
lessen the reputation or
influence of (a person). ølaw of diminishing returns Econ. the
fact that the
increase of
expenditure,
investment,
taxation,
etc.,
beyond a
certain point ceases to
produce a
proportionate yield. øødiminishable adj. [ME, blending of earlier minish f. OF menusier (formed as MINCE)
and diminue f. OF diminuer f. L diminuere diminutbreak up small]