Minimum \Min"i*mum\, n.; pl. Minima. [L., fr. minimus. See Minim.]

The least quantity assignable, admissible, or possible, in a given case; hence, a thing of small consequence; -- opposed to maximum.

Minimum thermometer, a thermometer for recording the lowest temperature since its last adjustment.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)