minus
UK[ˈmaɪnəs]US[ˈmaɪnəs]
prep
used when one number is being subtracted from another
prep
used to show that a number or temperature is below zero
n
a disadvantage or negative feature
adj
less than zero; negative
Etymology
The word 'minus' was directly adopted into English in the 15th century from the Latin word 'minus', meaning 'less'. This Latin term is the neuter form of 'minor', the comparative of 'parvus' (small). Its mathematical usage, denoting the operation of subtraction, developed from this core sense of 'less'. The logic of its journey is direct: from a Latin comparative adjective describing a lesser quantity, it evolved into a preposition and symbol representing the abstract concept of subtraction or deficiency in English.
Analysis
The word 'minus' is a simplex loanword from Latin, where it functioned as a comparative adjective or adverb. It is not productively segmented into smaller, meaningful morphemes in modern English spelling.
Examples
Ten minus four equals six.
The temperature dropped to minus five degrees overnight.
The plan has many pluses but one major minus.