reduce /rid(y)o̅o̅s″/ [L, reducere, to lead back] , 1. (in surgery) to restore a part to its original position after displacement, as in the reduction of a fractured bone by bringing ends or fragments back into alignment or of a hernia by returning the bowel to its normal position. A fracture may be reduced under local or general anesthesia. If performed by external manipulation alone, the reduction is said to be closed; if surgery is necessary, it is said to be open. See also fracture, hernia, invagination, traction. 2. to decrease the amount, size, extent, or number of something, as of body weight.
