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

Team members need to be self-sufficient enough to work with minimal supervision yet collaborative enough to contribute to the larger team dynamic. —Bhanu Jagasia, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024

In metro Phoenix, the black moon on Monday, Dec. 30, can be observed by finding a clear spot with minimal light pollution, though the moon itself will be invisible due to its alignment. —Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 30 Dec. 2024

The pre-treatments achieve brilliant colors and enhance the hand feel of fabrics with minimal resource consumption. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 30 Dec. 2024

While jaggery contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like calcium and iron, the amount of nutrients within a typical serving is minimal. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 29 Dec. 2024

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