1min·i·mum 
/ˈmɪnəməm/ noun
plural min·i·mums or technical min·i·ma /ˈmɪnəməm/ noun /ˈmɪnəmə/ [count] : the lowest number or amount that is possible or allowed — usually singular ▪ Ten years is the minimum needed. = We'll need 10 years at a/the minimum. [=we'll need at least 10 years] ▪ We need to keep expenses to a (bare) minimum. [=we need to keep expenses as low as possible] — often + of ▪ Refrigerate the dough for a minimum of two hours. [=for at least two hours] ▪ She will serve a minimum of 10 years in jail. — opposite maximum
