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

That restraint depended on her cast’s ability to convey emotion with minimal speech. —Essie Assibu, Variety, 3 Dec. 2025

Snow accumulations will be minimal. —Karen Carter, CBS News, 3 Dec. 2025

The set also includes two matching pillow shams with easy back closures, so your bed looks perfectly pulled together with minimal effort. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Dec. 2025

In recent years, Idaho taxpayers have funded subscriptions to Disney+, day trips to trampoline parks and chicken coops — all part of a growing virtual education program that legislative researchers say has minimal oversight. —Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 3 Dec. 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