What does minima mean?
“Minima” is the plural of “minimum” and refers to the smallest possible values or amounts. It is used when discussing several least values, such as the minimum temperatures recorded in different months or the minimum scores achieved by several students. In mathematics, minima have a more specialized meaning: they are the points at which a function reaches a local or absolute lowest value, often represented visually as the valleys on a graph. The word is more common in technical and formal contexts than in everyday speech, where “minimums” may sound more natural. Understanding minima also requires recognizing the contrast with “maxima,” which denotes the highest points or values. The plural form can consequently be useful when comparing several lower limits or describing the structure of a function across a range of inputs.
nounThe plural form of minimum, referring to the smallest possible amounts, values, or degrees. In mathematics, minima are points or values at which a function reaches a local or absolute lowest value.
- The plural of minimum: the smallest possible amounts, values, or degrees.
- In mathematics, local or absolute lowest points of a function or function value.
"The study found that the minima of daily temperatures occurred just before dawn."
"The program calculates the minima of the data in each seasonal period."
"The report identifies several regional minima in rainfall over the decade."
“Minima” is the plural of the singular noun “minimum.” The form is especially common in mathematical writing, where it refers to local or absolute lowest values.
"The curve has two distinct minima in the observed interval."
In a graph, minima are the valleys: the points where a function reaches its lowest levels.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does minima come from?
The word comes from Latin “minimus,” meaning “smallest” or “least.” English borrowed “minimum” in the 17th century, and “minima” later became the regular plural of the noun. The same Latin root is reflected in English words such as “minimal,” “minimize,” and “miniature.”
Related word forms
How minima is actually used
In general use, “minima” is a formal plural and is less common than “minimums.” In mathematics, the form is standard when referring to lowest points of a function.
Easily confused with minima
“Minimum” is the singular noun, while “minima” is its plural form; both can also refer to the least possible value in a particular context.
“Minima” are the lowest values or points of a function, whereas “maxima” are its highest values or points.