/mi nawr"i tee, -nor", -muy-/ , n. , pl. minorities , adj.
n.
1. the smaller part or number; a number, part, or amount forming less than half of the whole.
2. a smaller party or group opposed to a majority, as in voting or other action.
3. a group differing, esp. in race, religion, or ethnic background, from the majority of a population: legislation aimed at providing equal rights for minorities.
4. a member of such a group.
5. the state or period of being under the legal age of full responsibility.
adj.
6. of or pertaining to a minority.
[ 1525-35; minoritas. See MINOR, -ITY ]
Syn. 5. childhood, boyhood, girlhood.