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
Examples of minimal in a Sentence
The storm caused minimal damage.
areas at minimal risk for flooding
Recent Examples on the Web
Sensitive skin benefits from minimal ingredient lists with calming actives and mild surfactants that cleanse without irritation.
—
Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 1 Jan. 2026
When there's minimal to no oxygen, the spores can flourish.
—Lauren David, Southern Living, 1 Jan. 2026
But each test flight moves the Air Force closer to a future where fighter aircraft learn, adapt, and fight with minimal human input.
—Kapil Kajal, Interesting Engineering, 31 Dec. 2025
Ads that promised patients minimal discomfort also have come under attack in patient lawsuits.
—Jason Kane, NBC news, 31 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for minimal
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Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 1 Jan. 2026
When there's minimal to no oxygen, the spores can flourish.
—Lauren David, Southern Living, 1 Jan. 2026
But each test flight moves the Air Force closer to a future where fighter aircraft learn, adapt, and fight with minimal human input.
—Kapil Kajal, Interesting Engineering, 31 Dec. 2025
Ads that promised patients minimal discomfort also have come under attack in patient lawsuits.
—Jason Kane, NBC news, 31 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for minimal
Cite this Entry
“Minimal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minimal. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.
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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.
J. S. Keene et al.residents receive a minimal level of personal care—A. S. Oser
A. S. Oserside effects are minimal
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