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

These foldable slippers take up minimal space in a carry-on and have grippy rubber soles to protect your feet from the airplane bathroom floor. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2025

According to doctors, Jawanda’s neurological condition remained critical, with minimal brain activity and no significant improvement despite intensive medical care. —Robert Birsel, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Oct. 2025

The company also noted that the space will be designed to reflect its Scandinavian heritage, and will pair a contemporary, minimal aesthetic with refined detailing. —Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025

One of our top Amazon furniture finds, this curvy wooden console table is perfect for open concept lovers looking for minimal silhouettes. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 8 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