Minor

Definition

Minor is an adjective, a noun, and a verb. As an adjective, it refers to something of lesser importance, seriousness, or size. As a noun, it denotes a person who is under the age of legal adulthood or a secondary subject in education. As a verb (less common), it means to take a secondary field of study in academics.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmaɪnɚ/
• Respelling: MY-nur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmaɪnə/
• Respelling: MY-nuh

Etymology

The word "minor" originates from Latin "minor," meaning "smaller" or "less." It entered Middle English through Old French, retaining its meaning of being lesser in degree or size.

Derivatives

• Minority (noun)
• Minority status (noun)
• Minorly (adverb, rare)
• Minorship (noun, rare)
• Minoritarian (adjective)

Synonyms

• Secondary
• Insignificant
• Subordinate

Antonyms

• Major
• Significant
• Primary

Usage

The term "minor" is commonly used in contexts of age, importance, and academics. For example, "She sustained minor injuries in the accident," or "He is a minor studying biology."

Related Terms

• Major: The opposite of minor, often indicating greater importance.
• Juvenile: Related to individuals under legal adulthood.
• Subordinate: Lower in rank or importance.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Of lesser importance or seriousness: Refers to something not significant or crucial.
  • Example: "The problem was only a minor inconvenience."
• Smaller in size or scale: Describes something that is comparatively smaller.
  • Example: "He made a minor adjustment to the design."
• Relating to musical scales: Refers to a type of musical key or scale characterized by a specific interval pattern.
  • Example: "The symphony is written in a minor key."

Noun

• A person under legal adulthood: Denotes someone who has not reached the age of majority.
  • Example: "The law protects minors from certain liabilities."
• A secondary academic focus: Refers to a student’s secondary field of study.
  • Example: "She is majoring in chemistry and has a minor in physics."

Verb

• To pursue a secondary field of study: Refers to studying a less emphasized academic subject.
  • Example: "He decided to minor in literature."