I. ˈminəməm noun
( plural mini·ma -nəmə ; also minimums )
Etymology: Latin, neuter of minimus smallest, least, superl. from the root of Latin minor smaller — more at minor
1. archaic : a portion (as of matter) so small as to be incapable of further division
2. : the least quantity assignable, admissible, or possible in a given case — opposed to maximum
economic stabilization with a minimum of government regulation — Gerhard Colm
designed for a maximum of comfort and minimum of clutter — Technical Education News
the cost per page is reduced to a minimum — Scientific Monthly
rigid legal minima for bank reserves — E.W.Kemmerer
3.
a. : a number not greater than any other number of a finite set of numbers
b. : a value of a mathematical function of one or more independent variables such that either increasing or decreasing any one of the independent variables by a sufficiently small amount results in an increase in the function
4. : the lowest degree or amount of variation (as of temperature) reached or recorded
5.
a. : the time of least brightness or the magnitude at this time in a variable star
b. : the time when sunspots are least numerous in the 11-year cycle
6. : minim 5
II. adjective
: of, relating to, or constituting a minimum : least attainable or possible
the book contains a minimum discussion of the dynamics of British politics — R.R.Hackford
having achieved the highest minimum wage — H.R.Northrup
types of taxation … administered with minimum possibility of revenue loss — Matthew Woll
III. noun
: the lowest speed allowed on a highway