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

Doing so either at no cost or at a minimal cost. —Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026

Vows unfold against sweeping views of downtown Phoenix and the red rock of Papago, so decorations can stay minimal. —Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 31 May 2026

Amenities are fairly minimal, so plan ahead with water, snacks, and sun protection—though the visitor center does have some refreshments, including ice cream. —Taryn Shorr-McKee, Travel + Leisure, 31 May 2026

Debby Orcutt said her side effects from daraxonrasib were minimal, with a slight rash on her hands and what felt like a big canker sore in her mouth. —Erika Edwards, NBC news, 31 May 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