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.
© Webster 1913.