minimal pair
noun
: two linguistic units that differ in a single distinctive feature or constituent (such as voice in the initial consonants of bat and pat)
Examples of minimal pair in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Go with a sleek or minimal pair with comfortable cushioning that won't rub on the skin.
—
John Thompson, Men's Health, 14 Feb. 2023
Sixty-nine percent of you voted for Balmain’s crystal-embellished style over Dries Van Noten’s slimmer and minimal pair.
—Vogue, 19 Dec. 2018
This minimal pair is like a universal donor, looking right at home next to every style of sofa, from contemporary tuxedo to traditional Chesterfield.
—Joanna Linberg, Sunset, 22 Jan. 2018
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John Thompson, Men's Health, 14 Feb. 2023
Sixty-nine percent of you voted for Balmain’s crystal-embellished style over Dries Van Noten’s slimmer and minimal pair.
—Vogue, 19 Dec. 2018
This minimal pair is like a universal donor, looking right at home next to every style of sofa, from contemporary tuxedo to traditional Chesterfield.
—Joanna Linberg, Sunset, 22 Jan. 2018
Cite this Entry
“Minimal pair.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimal%20pair. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.
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