to make or cause to seem smaller, less, less important, etc.; lessen; reduce.

Architecture . to give (a column) a form tapering inward from bottom to top.

Music . to make (an interval) smaller by a chromatic half step than the corresponding perfect or minor interval.

to detract from the authority, honor, stature, or reputation of; disparage.

to lessen; decrease.

noun

abatement , curtailment , cut , cutback , decrement , diminution , drain , reduction , slash , slowdown , taper , attenuation , declination , depreciation , diminuendo , extenuation , regression , retrenchment

adjective

decrescendo , diminishing , diminuendo , extenuatory , regressive

verb

abate , attenuate , depreciate , diminish , dwindle , extenuate , lessen , palliate , recede , regress , retrench