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Diminished: meaning, definitions and examples

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diminished

[dɪˈmɪnɪʃt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

music

Made smaller or less in size, amount, or degree. In music, diminished refers to a chord that is made up of a minor third and a diminished fifth.

Synonyms

decreased, lessened, reduced.

Examples of usage

  • The diminished chord created a sense of tension in the music.
  • The composer used diminished scales to add a sense of mystery to the piece.
Context #2 | Verb

general

To make or become less. To diminish something is to reduce its size, amount, or intensity.

Synonyms

decrease, lessen, reduce.

Examples of usage

  • The company's profits diminished after the economic downturn.
  • The noise from the construction site diminished as the workers finished for the day.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'diminuere', meaning 'to lessen'.
  • It has roots in the Old French word 'desminuer', which also means to reduce.
  • The prefix 'di-' indicates a form of reduction, while 'minuere' means to lessen.

Psychology

  • Feeling diminished can affect self-esteem, leading to a lowered sense of self-worth.
  • In therapy, individuals often work through feelings of being diminished by others to regain confidence.
  • Smaller accomplishments can lead to feelings of inadequacy if they overshadow larger achievements.

Music

  • In music, a diminished chord is created by stacking minor thirds, giving it a tense sound.
  • Diminished chords often appear in classical and jazz music, adding emotional depth.
  • The use of diminished scales can create a sense of mystery or suspense in compositions.

Literature

  • Themes of diminished hopes or dreams are common in classic literature, reflecting characters' struggles.
  • In storytelling, a character's sense of diminished ability can drive their development and plot progression.
  • Authors often use language related to diminishing to highlight the passage of time or loss of vitality in their narratives.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In various cultures, the concept of diminishing can relate to aging and the change in one’s capabilities over time.
  • Social discussions around diminished capacities often focus on the elderly or those with disabilities, advocating for respect and inclusion.
  • Art and visual media often capture themes of diminishment, portraying loss and nostalgia in various forms.

Translations

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Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,761, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.