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 Minimal : of, relating to, or being minimal art or minimalism

minimally

ˈmi-nə-mə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of minimal

• slightest
• minimum
• lowest
• smallest
• small

Examples of minimal in a Sentence

The storm caused minimal damage.

areas at minimal risk for flooding

Recent Examples on the Web

Cherry blossom graphics cover the oversize headboards of each bed as the focal point in an otherwise minimal space, while suites include floor-to-ceiling graphic murals. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Feb. 2026

Social media has since carried horror stories of recruits subjected to abuse and sent to the front line with minimal training. —Yinka Adegoke, semafor.com, 25 Feb. 2026

This minimal-effort change costs only $13 but gives your overall appearance a more refined look. —Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 25 Feb. 2026

The mountain is known for its wide bowls, soft snow and minimal lift-line culture — even on weekends. —Caroline Tell, CNN Money, 25 Feb. 2026

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