To "minimize" means to reduce something to the smallest possible amount or degree. This term is often used in various contexts, such as in mathematics, where one might minimize a function to find its lowest value. In everyday life, people may seek to minimize waste, expenses, or risks to improve efficiency and effectiveness. In the context of health, individuals may aim to minimize stress through relaxation techniques or time management. Similarly, businesses often strive to minimize costs while maximizing profits. Overall, minimizing involves making conscious efforts to decrease negative factors or unwanted elements in different situations.