diminishing
UK: dɪˈmɪnɪʃɪŋ | US: dɪˈmɪnɪʃɪŋ
adj. becoming smaller or less significant
vt. (present participle of diminish) reducing in size, extent, or importance
The word traces back to Latin diminuere (to break into small pieces), combining dis- (completely) + minuere (to lessen). The root min (small) appears in words like minor and minute. Over time, diminish evolved in Middle English via Old French diminuer, retaining its core meaning of gradual reduction. The -ish suffix marks it as a verb, while -ing forms the present participle.
The diminishing sunlight signaled the approach of winter.
Her patience was diminishing with each repeated question.
Economists warn of diminishing returns on excessive investment.
The artist used perspective to create a diminishing effect in the painting.
Public support for the policy is steadily diminishing.