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

The flat seat design—with minimal padding—serves as a constant reminder of the KB998 Rimini’s racing heritage. — Michael Van Runkle, Robb Report, 21 Sep. 2026

Major carriers from large swaths of the state are now refusing to insure even low-risk properties with minimal danger of burning. — Paige St. John, Los Angeles Times, 20 Sep. 2026

Lightning-fast, dual-heat design cuts styling time in half and ensures even heat distribution and minimal damage. — ABC News, 19 Sep. 2026

This comes at a time when the state has minimal shelter services for people under 18, said Stacey Violante Cote, of the Center for Children’s Advocacy. — Ginny Monk, Hartford Courant, 19 Sep. 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