minimal

adjective

min·​i·​mal ˈmi-nə-məl How to pronounce minimal (audio)
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 adverb

Examples of minimal in a Sentence

The storm caused minimal damage. areas at minimal risk for flooding
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Unlike the two prior movies, there was also minimal audience interest. Marc Berman, Forbes, 11 Jan. 2025 That explain why authoritarians can arise through genuine support (or seize power by force with minimal opposition). Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 10 Jan. 2025 Whether you’re betrothed or trying to manifest it, take a cue from Selena Gomez’s minimal approach with a sheer pink shade for something chic and timeless. Audrey Noble, Vogue, 10 Jan. 2025 This watch is listed in outstanding overall condition, with only minimal signs of age, which is a good thing considering its sale date of December 2020. Blake Buettner, Robb Report, 10 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for minimal 

Word History

First Known Use

1666, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of minimal was in 1666

Dictionary Entries Near minimal

Cite this Entry

“Minimal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimal. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

minimal

adjective
min·​i·​mal ˈmin-ə-məl How to pronounce minimal (audio)
: relating to or being a minimum : least
minimally adverb

Medical Definition

minimal

adjective
min·​i·​mal ˈmin-ə-məl How to pronounce minimal (audio)
: 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 … treatmentJ. S. Keene et al.
residents receive a minimal level of personal careA. S. Oser
side effects are minimal

More from Merriam-Webster on minimal

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