1 minimal | Definition of minimal

minimal

adjective
min·​i·​mal | \ ˈmi-nÉ™-mÉ™l How to pronounce minimal (audio) \

Definition of minimal

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

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Other Words from minimal

minimally \ ˈmi-​nÉ™-​mÉ™-​lÄ“ How to pronounce minimally (audio) \ adverb

Examples of minimal in a Sentence

The storm caused minimal damage. areas at minimal risk for flooding

Recent Examples on the Web

Media coverage, initially broadcasted to over 120 countries and more than 50 networks, is now minimal. Kathryn Bertine, Outside Online, "It's Time for Pro Cycling to Treat Women Equally," 22 Aug. 2019 Even in open Republican seats, the interest is minimal. Jennifer Steinhauer, New York Times, "Why Are These Democrats Too Good for the Senate?," 16 Aug. 2019 Pascal Siakam, Raptors Toronto’s cap commitments will be minimal following the expiration of Kyle Lowry, Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol’s contracts after the 2018-19 season. Michael Shapiro, SI.com, "Rookie-Scale Extension Watch: Will Pascal Siakam Land a Big Payday?," 15 Aug. 2019 The proposed tighter regulatory controls on fossil fuels production in Colorado will displace oil and gas development to parts of the planet where regulations are minimal, Wright told lawmakers. Bruce Finley, The Denver Post, "Can Colorado help in the climate crisis? Congressional committee comes to state seeking guidance," 2 Aug. 2019 For more than half of these students — those who attend public charter schools and participate in the METCO program — the impact would be minimal. Jim Stergios, BostonGlobe.com, "Tackling equity at Boston’s exam schools," 2 Aug. 2019 Unlike slow-moving drones such as the Reaper and the Global Hawk, which are flown remotely by pilots on the ground, the new combat drones would be able to operate with minimal input from human pilots. Jeremy Hsu, NBC News, "Robotic fighter jets could soon join military pilots on combat missions. Here's why.," 6 June 2019 But for those remote workers who enjoy ready access to friends, family or other telecommuting colleagues, the health risks seem minimal. Markham Heid, Time, "Is Working Remotely Bad for Your Health?," 9 July 2018 Smooth as butter, the leather designs range from quilted shoulder bags to minimal and structured work totes that are anything but boring. Lauren Alexis Fisher, Harper's BAZAAR, "Fashion Insiders Are Obsessed with New Bottega," 31 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'minimal.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of minimal

1666, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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More Definitions for minimal

minimal

adjective

English Language Learners Definition of minimal

: very small or slight in size or amount

minimal

adjective
min·​i·​mal | \ ˈmin-É™-mÉ™l How to pronounce minimal (audio) \

Medical Definition of minimal

: 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

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