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

minimally

ˈmi-nə-mə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• fewest
• littlest
• lowest
• minimum
• minutest
• slightest
• smallest
• tiniest

Examples of minimal in a Sentence

The storm caused minimal damage.

areas at minimal risk for flooding

Recent Examples on the Web

This can manifest in poor financial behaviors like excessive credit card debt, minimal savings, or impulsive investment decisions. —Shane Enete, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025

Trying to cool heads, Corbet released a statement further explaining how the AI tool was used and its minimal effect on the overall film. —Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 23 Mar. 2025

Several former officials shrug off move as meaningless The practical effects of the move are likely minimal. —Rebecca Rosman, NPR, 22 Mar. 2025

While Joanna Gaines is no stranger to a full home renovation, her collection with textile company Loloi includes decor pieces that can transform a space with minimal effort. —Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 22 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1666, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing minimal

• minimal art
• minimal brain dysfunction
• minimal pair
• sub-minimal

Kids Definition

minimal

adjective

min·​i·​mal ˈmin-ə-məl 

: relating to or being a minimum : least

minimally

-mə-lē 

adverb

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.

residents receive a minimal level of personal care

—A. S. Oser

side effects are minimal