minimum

noun

min·​i·​mum ˈmi-nə-məm 

plural minima ˈmi-nə-mə  or minimums

1

: the least quantity assignable, admissible, or possible

Keep expenses to a bare minimum.

He was sentenced to a minimum of 10 years in prison.

2

: the least of a set of numbers

specifically : the smallest value assumed by a continuous (see continuous sense 2) function defined on a closed (see closed sense 3b) interval

3

a

: the lowest degree or amount of variation (as of temperature) reached or recorded

b

: the lowest speed allowed on a highway

minimum adjective

Examples of minimum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In practice, this means keeping rules and requirements to a minimum while our enthusiastic coaches organize engaging and welcoming activities and games for children of all abilities and ages. —Jordan Brackett, New York Daily News, 4 Jan. 2026

While these additions would be welcome, other basic equipment and medications should be included as the bare minimum. —Tushara Surapaneni, Chicago Tribune, 4 Jan. 2026

Suggestions include lowering some of the height minimums to allow for more single story buildings like libraries, shops and townhomes. —Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Jan. 2026

No minimum to redeem for cash back. —Andreina Rodriguez, CNBC, 2 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, neuter of minimus smallest; akin to Latin minor smaller — more at minor

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing minimum

• alternative minimum tax
• at a/the minimum
• minimum security prison
• minimum wage
• sub-minimum
• to a (bare) minimum

Kids Definition

minimum

noun

min·​i·​mum ˈmin-ə-məm 

plural minima -ə-mə  or minimums

1

: the least quantity possible or allowable

2

: the lowest degree or amount reached or recorded

minimum adjective

Medical Definition

minimum

1 of 2 noun

min·​i·​mum ˈmin-ə-məm 

plural minima -ə-mə  or minimums

1

: the least quantity assignable, admissible, or possible

2

: the lowest degree or amount of variation (as of temperature) reached or recorded

minimum

2 of 2 adjective

: of, relating to, or constituting a minimum

meet the minimum psychiatric needs of the country

—E. A. Strecker

establishing minimum standards for medical education

—CIBA Symposia