What does minimalist mean?
A minimalist is someone who favors simplicity, restraint, and the minimum amount of ornament or material. In its adjectival use, minimalist describes a style or approach that removes unnecessary detail, decoration, and complexity, as in minimalist architecture, design, or fashion. The word often carries a generally positive connotation because minimalism suggests clarity, efficiency, and deliberate artistic control, although it can also imply that something is too plain or lacking in expressive richness. The term is especially common in the arts, architecture, technology, and discussions of personal organization and lifestyle. Historically, minimalism developed as a movement in the arts during the second half of the 20th century, influenced by ideas about reducing artistic form to its basic elements. Today, “minimalist” is also widely used informally for people who own few possessions and prefer uncluttered environments.
A person who prefers the simplest possible design, lifestyle, or arrangement and rejects unnecessary ornament or complexity.
"The minimalist removed almost everything from the apartment except a bed, a table, and a lamp."
Often used in discussions of art, design, architecture, consumer culture, and personal lifestyle.
Characterized by simplicity and the absence of unnecessary ornament, detail, or decoration.
"The minimalist kitchen contains only the appliances required for cooking."
It can be approving, suggesting clarity and discipline, or mildly critical, suggesting excessive plainness.
The plural is used for people who advocate or follow minimalist principles.
"Minimalists often argue that owning fewer things creates more freedom and focus."
Minimalism is the art of deciding that what you leave out matters just as much as what you put in.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does minimalist come from?
The word “minimalist” was formed in the 20th century from “minimal,” which comes through French from the Latin minimus, meaning “smallest” or “least.” The suffix “-ist” was added in the sense of a person who follows a principle or practice, producing “minimalist” as one who pursues minimalism. Its artistic sense developed from the broader idea of reducing art and design to essential forms, while related English words such as minimum, minimize, minor, and miniature reflect the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How minimalist is actually used
The term is common in discussions of art, architecture, design, technology, and lifestyle. It can be approving, emphasizing clarity and efficiency, or mildly critical, suggesting that something is excessively plain or stripped of character.
Easily confused with minimalist
Minimal describes the quality of being reduced to what is necessary, while minimalist is usually a noun for a person or an adjective for a style or approach associated with minimalism.