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

Anchored by a clean yet slightly dewy complexion, the aesthetic is minimal, crafted using natural tones and featherweight formulas. — Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 5 Oct. 2026

When classification is part of data workflows and not a post-facto process, the burden on your people is minimal and ongoing coverage continues. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 5 Oct. 2026

Many of the new billionaires largely avoid income taxation because, technically, their pay is minimal; Page and Brin both have base salaries of a dollar a year. — Nicholas Lemann, New Yorker, 4 Oct. 2026

Hohns kept his capital investments minimal, fearing a shutdown. — ABC News, 3 Oct. 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