minimal
adjective
min·i·mal
ˈmi-nə-məl 
1
: relating to or being a minimum: such as
a
: the least possible
a victory won with minimal loss of life
b
: barely adequate
a minimal standard of living
c
: very small or slight
a minimal interest in art
2
often capitalized
: of, relating to, or being minimal art or minimalism
Examples of minimal in a Sentence
The storm caused minimal damage.
areas at minimal risk for flooding
Recent Examples on the Web
Inside the Senate, Johnson’s broader strategy—pushing through House priorities quickly and with minimal changes—is beginning to unravel.
—
Nik Popli, Time, 4 June 2025
Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible? NOAA projected a view line, marking a minimal opportunity to see the northern lights that sweeps through northern Iowa.
—Ty Roush, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
Look no farther than March Madness, where brands ranging from Under Armour to Nyx and Skims flocked to sign up college students for NIL contracts — some of whom have relatively minimal followings.
—Cole Mason, Rolling Stone, 4 June 2025
The backpack's secure fit allowed the full range of motion, even with minimal padding, making this an ideal choice for day hikes or longer outdoor activities.
—Donna Kim, Travel + Leisure, 4 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for minimal
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Nik Popli, Time, 4 June 2025
Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible? NOAA projected a view line, marking a minimal opportunity to see the northern lights that sweeps through northern Iowa.
—Ty Roush, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
Look no farther than March Madness, where brands ranging from Under Armour to Nyx and Skims flocked to sign up college students for NIL contracts — some of whom have relatively minimal followings.
—Cole Mason, Rolling Stone, 4 June 2025
The backpack's secure fit allowed the full range of motion, even with minimal padding, making this an ideal choice for day hikes or longer outdoor activities.
—Donna Kim, Travel + Leisure, 4 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for minimal
Cite this Entry
“Minimal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimal. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.
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Medical Definition
minimal
adjective
min·i·mal
ˈmin-ə-məl
: relating to or being a minimum : constituting the least possible with respect to size, number, degree, or certain stated conditions
tuberosity fractures heal with minimal … treatment—J. S. Keene et al.
J. S. Keene et al.residents receive a minimal level of personal care—A. S. Oser
A. S. Oserside effects are minimal
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