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

Both materials maintained high efficiency through six reuse cycles, showing excellent stability and minimal loss of performance. —Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 2025

Built by aerospace contractor Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, the X-59 is designed to fly at supersonic speeds with minimal noise. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 29 Oct. 2025

However, the impact for most cardholders will be minimal. —David Lightman, Sacbee.com, 29 Oct. 2025

It’s housed in a minimal and matte cauldron-like vessel that will still look fashionable beyond October 31st. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 29 Oct. 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