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

• slightest
• minimum
• lowest
• smallest
• small

Examples of minimal in a Sentence

The storm caused minimal damage.

areas at minimal risk for flooding

Recent Examples on the Web

Catchers are always in short supply at the trade deadline, and the bar for a passable veteran backup might be low enough for Vázquez to clear, but the return will be minimal at best. —Aaron Gleeman, New York Times, 10 July 2025

Although supply disruptions have been minimal so far, the risk of interference with oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz remains a major factor driving market reactions. —Thais Lopez Vogel, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 July 2025

Trusted advisors and loyal employees, usually from the operating business, form the core team with minimal governance. —Paul Westall, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025

Workers become permanent employees with a minimal equity stake. —Preston Fore, Fortune, 10 July 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