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.
