minus
minus Lexical Profile
minus Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Less than zero in mathematical value, or below zero on a temperature scale.
"The expedition endured minus temperatures for three consecutive weeks in the Arctic."
Slightly lower than a specified academic grade or standard (typically placed after the letter or number).
"She received an A minus on her final history essay."
Having a negative electrical charge, or denoting a terminal with a lower electric potential.
"Connect the black wire securely to the minus terminal of the battery."
• preposition
Reduced by the subtraction of a specified number or amount.
"Ten minus four equals six."
Lacking or deprived of something that was formerly present or expected.
"He returned from the camping trip minus his favorite jacket."
• noun
The mathematical symbol (–) used to indicate subtraction or a negative quantity.
"Make sure you write a clear minus before the number so it is not mistaken for a positive value."
A disadvantage, drawback, or unfavorable factor.
"We weighed the pluses and minuses of relocating to a larger city before making our decision."
A negative quantity or number.
"Multiplying two minuses together always results in a positive number."
• Rhymes for minus
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 15th century from Latin minus, the neuter comparative form of parvus ('small, little'), literally meaning 'less'.