Definition of "minimal"

minimal

/ˈmɪn.ɪ.məl/

adjective
comparative more minimal, superlative most minimal
1. The smallest possible amount, quantity, or degree.
2. (art) Characterised by the use of simple form or structures.
3. (music) Characterised by the repetition and gradual alteration of short phrases.
noun
plural minimals
1. Something very small; a tiny part or fragment.
  Quotations
  […] we seek in explaining mental phenomena and behavior always the "minimals," the little fragments of association, on which the mind is (passively) supposed to be based.
  1994, David Holbrook, Creativity and Popular Culture, page 37
  […] identifications with birds, fish, trees, and flowers (and occasionally as relief, with the stillness of rocks, clam shells, driftwood, and nature's minimals); […]
  1987, J. Golden Taylor, Western Literature Association (U.S.), A Literary History of the American West (page 451)