Dim`i*nu"tion (?), n.
[L. diminutio, or perh. rather deminutio: cf. F.
diminution. See
Diminish.]
1. The act of
diminishing, or of making or becoming less; state of being diminished; reduction
in size, quantity, or degree; -- opposed to augmentation or increase.
2.
The act of lessening dignity or consideration, or the state
of being deprived of dignity; a
lowering in estimation; degradation; abasement.
The world's opinion or diminution of me.
Eikon
Basilike. Nor thinks it diminution to be ranked
In military honor next.
Philips. 3. (Law) Omission, inaccuracy, or defect in a record.
4. (Mus.) In counterpoint, the imitation of, or reply to, a subject, in
notes of half the length or
value of those the subject itself.
Syn. -- Decrease;
decay; abatement; reduction; deduction; decrement.
Hear it pronounced