minimally
UK[ˈmɪn.ɪ.məl.i]US[ˈmɪn.ə.məl.i]
adv
to the smallest degree or amount possible; in a very limited way.
adv
in a way that is only just adequate or within the lowest limits.
Morpheme Breakdown
minimal
ly
minimal
smallest
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
the adverb "minimally" is a modern formation built upon the adjective "minimal," which entered english in the 17th century from latin minimalis, itself derived from minimus ("smallest, least"). the latin minimus is the superlative form of parvus ("small"), tracing its lineage back to the proto-indo-european root mei-, meaning "small." the suffix "-ly," of old english origin, is a productive adverbial marker. thus, the word's literal construction is "in a smallest manner," which evolved to signify acting or existing in the least possible degree, perfectly capturing its modern sense of bare adequacy or extreme limitation.
Analysis
Structure: minimal (smallest) + ly (adverb suffix)
minimal (from latin minimus, meaning "smallest, least", via the modern english adjective minimal) + ly (from old english -līce, an adverbial suffix forming adverbs from adjectives).
Examples
the room was minimally furnished, containing only a bed and a chair.
the procedure is minimally invasive, requiring only a tiny incision.
he was minimally involved in the project, contributing just a few ideas.