adj. 1 existing in name only; not real or actual (nominal and real prices; nominal ruler). 2 (of a sum of money, rent, etc.) virtually nothing; much below the actual value of a thing. 3 of or in names (nominal and essential distinctions). 4 consisting of or giving the names (nominal list of officers). 5 of or as or like a noun. nominal definition a statement of all that is connoted in the name of a concept. nominal value the face value (of a coin, shares, etc.). nominally adv.
[ ME f. F nominal or L nominalis f. nomen -inis name ]