minority

[ mahy-nawr-i-tee, -nor, mi- ]

noun

, plural mi·nor·i·ties.

1. the smaller part or number; a number, part, or amount forming less than half of the whole.
2. a smaller party or group opposed to a majority, as in voting or other action.
3. a group in society distinguished from, and less dominant than, the more numerous majority:

   The ethnic minority was disproportionately affected by the reduction in preventative medical services.

4. a racial, ethnic, religious, or social subdivision of a society that is subordinated in political, financial, or social power by the dominant group, without regard to the size of these groups:

   legislation aimed at providing equal rights for minorities.

5. a member of such a group.
6. the state or period of being under the legal age of full responsibility.

   Synonyms: girlhood, boyhood, childhood

adjective

1. of or relating to a minority.

minority

/ mɪ-; maɪˈnɒrɪtɪ /

noun

1. the smaller in number of two parts, factions, or groups
2. a group that is different racially, politically, etc, from a larger group of which it is a part
3. 1. the state of being a minor
   2. the period during which a person is below legal age Compare majority
4. modifier relating to or being a minority

   a minority opinion

   a minority interest

Other Words From

• non·mi·nor·i·ty adjective
• pro·mi·nor·i·ty adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of minority¹

First recorded in 1450–1500; late Middle English, from Middle French minorité, from Medieval Latin minōritāt-, stem of minōritās; minor, -ity

Word History and Origins

Origin of minority¹

C16: from Medieval Latin minōritās, from Latin minor

Example Sentences

Microsoft, then a minority partner in the channel, made web culture part of its programming.

From Los Angeles Times

However, they say they share concerns that the proposed legislation would put "vulnerable minorities" at risk.

From BBC

But minority Republicans basically function the same way.

From Los Angeles Times

However, since then there have been tensions over issues including China's treatment of the Uyghur minority group in Xinjiang and pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong.

From BBC

“Trump has demeaned and debased just about anybody he could, from immigrants to minorities to women to those who are disabled,” he says.

From BBC

Related Words

• opposition