DIMINUTION

decrease, diminution, reduction, step-down

(noun) the act of decreasing or reducing something

diminution

(noun) the statement of a theme in notes of lesser duration (usually half the length of the original)

decline, diminution

(noun) change toward something smaller or lower

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

diminution (countable and uncountable, plural diminutions)

A lessening, decrease or reduction.

The act or process of making diminutive.

(music) a compositional technique where the composer shortens the melody by shortening its note values.

Synonyms

• (lessening, decrease): diminishment

Source: Wiktionary

Dim`i*nu"tion, n. Etym: [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)

Definition: Omission, inaccuracy, or defect in a record.

4. (Mus.)

Definition: 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 Edition