<p><strong>Verb (used with object):</strong></p><ul><li>to make or cause to seem smaller, less, less important, etc.; lessen; reduce.</li><li>to give (a column) a form tapering inward from bottom to top.</li><li>to make (an interval) smaller by a chromatic half step than the corresponding perfect or minor interval.</li><li>to detract from the authority, honor, stature, or reputation of; disparage.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb (used without object):</strong></p><ul><li>to lessen; decrease.</li></ul>