What does minority mean?
A minority is the smaller portion of a group or population, particularly when a society distinguishes people by ethnicity, religion, language, culture, or another characteristic. The word can simply describe numbers, as in 'a numerical minority', but it often carries a social or political implication: members of a minority may have less influence, representation, or access to resources than the majority. It can also mean the condition of belonging to such a group, as in 'members of a linguistic minority'. In everyday argument, 'a minority view' means a position held by relatively few people, not necessarily a group defined by identity. The term is therefore broader than a demographic label and is often used when discussing representation, rights, inclusion, and unequal treatment.
A group that forms less than half of a larger population, especially an ethnic, religious, or cultural group.
"The law protects the rights of religious minorities."
Often used in social and political contexts to refer to groups that may be numerically smaller and less politically dominant.
The smaller part or portion of a group, or a position held by relatively few people.
"Support for the proposal remained a minority until the final vote."
This sense is broader than the demographic sense and can refer to political preferences, practices, or opinions.
Used for two or more minority groups, populations, or positions.
"The conference brought together representatives of several national minorities."
What looks like a simple word carries a political question: who gets to describe their community as a minority?
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does minority come from?
The word entered English in the early 15th century from French minorité, which was borrowed from Latin minoritas. Latin minoritas was formed from minor, meaning 'smaller' or 'less'. The same Latin family also produced words such as minor, minus, and miniature.
Related word forms
How minority is actually used
The term is neutral when used in demographic or legal contexts, such as 'ethnic minority', but can imply disadvantage, exclusion, or limited power in other contexts. It is commonly used in political, social, and educational discussion in both British and American English.
Easily confused with minority
A minority is the smaller part of a group, while a majority is the larger part, usually accounting for more than half.
Minor describes something of lesser importance, size, or significance, whereas minority refers to a group that is numerically or socially smaller than the dominant group.