as in slightest
being the least in amount, number, or size possible
the beached whales were returned to the sea with only minimal loss of life
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Recent Examples of minimal
The Bears have minimal pass rush, have trouble stopping the run — actually both teams do — and tend to give up big plays.
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Los Angeles Times, 8 Jan. 2026
Mono-Blooms and Petite Bouquets Hosts are embracing mono-botanical moments, arranging clusters of a single flower type, such as chamomile, garden roses, and olive branches, placed throughout the home for a chic, minimal look that pairs naturally with modern décor.
—Colleen Sullivan, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Jan. 2026
My bedroom is quite minimal—jute rug, dark wood dresser, cream linen curtains.
—Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 7 Jan. 2026
The treatment goal is minimal yearly decline.
—Brandi Jones, Health, 7 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for minimal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for minimal
Adjective
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Under a 10-year concession agreement, the group agreed to pay at least $50 million to the city, including minimum annual rent payments starting at $4 million and increasing by 3% each year.—
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Global tax deal Nearly 150 countries have agreed to a landmark deal to stop large global companies from shifting profits to low-tax jurisdictions and impose a minimum 15% global tax.—
Adjective
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The founders argue that automation should be accessible to smaller operators, including neighborhood bars and private event spaces.—
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There can be 30 minutes of small waves before a sneaker wave strikes.—
Cite this Entry
“Minimal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/minimal. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.
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