Diminution
Pronunciation : Dim`i*nu"tion
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [L. diminutio, or perh. rather deminutio: cf. F. diminution. See Diminish.]
Definition : 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)
Defn: Omission, inaccuracy, or defect in a record.
4. (Mus.)
Defn: 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.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913