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.
Now, boasting an exceptional cast and a minimal set, a 21st-century audience is experiencing the tragedy of what happens when delusion and reality come crashing together. Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 12 Mar. 2025 Only 6% provide just minimal oversight for AI outputs. Megan Poinski, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 What works: Clean, classic denim with minimal details—black jeans, full-length blue jeans, or ankle-length Levi’s in a straight-leg or relaxed fit. Ruhama Wolle, Glamour, 12 Mar. 2025 Which Provides Better Protein? Eggs are a rich source of protein with minimal carbs. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 12 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Minimal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimal. Accessed 23 Mar. 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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