diminution

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. The act of lessening dignity or consideration, or the state of being deprived of dignity; a lowering in estimation; degradation; abasement. [ 1913 Webster ]

The world's opinion or diminution of me. Eikon Basilike. [ 1913 Webster ]

Nor thinks it diminution to be ranked
In military honor next. Philips. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Law) Omission, inaccuracy, or defect in a record. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]