minimal
|min/i/mal|
B2
/ˈmɪnɪməl/
least amount
Etymology
Etymology Information
'minimal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'minimus,' where 'minimus' meant 'smallest or least.'
Historical Evolution
'minimus' transformed into the French word 'minimal,' and eventually became the modern English word 'minimal' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'smallest or least,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'negligible or least amount.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
of a minimum amount, quantity, or degree; negligible.
The damage to the car was minimal.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39