diminution
UK: ˌdɪmɪˈnjuːʃən | US: ˌdɪmɪˈnuːʃən
n. the act or process of diminishing; reduction in size, extent, or importance.
diminution = diminut<lessen> + ion<noun suffix>
- diminut (from Latin diminut-, stem of diminuere "to lessen," combining dis- "apart" + minuere "to make small")
- ion (noun-forming suffix indicating action or state)
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin diminutio, derived from diminuere ("to break into small pieces"). The root minuere (meaning "to lessen") also gives us "minute" (small) and "minor." Over time, diminution evolved in English (14th century) to describe gradual reduction, retaining its core logic of "making smaller."
The diminution of natural habitats threatens biodiversity.
Aging often leads to a diminution of physical strength.
The treaty resulted in a diminution of the country's territorial claims.
Economists observed a diminution in consumer spending.
His influence suffered a steady diminution after the scandal.