reduction
UK: rɪˈdʌkʃən | US: rɪˈdʌkʃən
n. the act or process of making something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size
n. the amount by which something is reduced
n. (chemistry) the gain of electrons or decrease in oxidation state by a molecule, atom, or ion
The word "reduction" traces back to Latin reductio, from reducere ("to bring back, lead back"), combining re- (indicating reversal or repetition) and ducere ("to lead"). The morpheme duct (from ducere) appears in many English words (e.g., "conduct," "induct"), reflecting the idea of "leading" or "bringing." Over time, "reduction" evolved to signify "bringing something back to a simpler or smaller state," aligning with its modern meanings in mathematics, chemistry, and general usage.
The company announced a 20% reduction in staff due to budget cuts.
The recipe calls for the reduction of the sauce by half.
Carbon dioxide undergoes reduction to form methane in this chemical process.
The reduction of pollution levels requires collective effort.
He negotiated a price reduction for the damaged goods.