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

minimally

ˈmi-nə-mə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• 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

Fast Innovation With Minimal Disruption Composable architecture provides the ability to future-proof business by enabling rapid integration of new technologies with minimal disruption. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025

The seven twist-on brush heads, including a grout brush, scrubber pads, soft bristle brush, and more were easy to swap out mid-task, and the tool held up well under pressure, with minimal wear. —Maggie Horton, People.com, 22 July 2025

Are dog-day cicadas harmful to trees? On mature trees, cicadas typically cause minimal harm. —Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 22 July 2025

Beyond its heart-pumping benefits, this routine also requires minimal equipment. —Jenny McCoy, SELF, 21 July 2025

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