Diminishing verb (used with object)
1.to make or cause to seem smaller, less, less important, etc.; lessen ; reduce.
2.Architecture. to give (a column) a form tapering inward from bottom to top.
3.Music. to make (an interval) smaller by a chromatic half step than the corresponding perfect or minor interval.
4.to detract from the authority, honor, stature, or reputation of ; disparage.