(phonology) A pair of words differing by only one phonetic segment or suprasegment, used to prove the validity of a proposed phoneme, toneme, or chroneme.

(mathematics) A point on a graph (or its associated function) whose value is less than all other points near it.

the mining of gold-bearing quartz

(law) In United States civil procedure, the contact required between a party and a state in order for the courts of that state to constitutionally assert personal jurisdiction over that party.

plural of minimal pair

plural of near-minimal pair

Related to a religious minister or ministry. / Related to a governmental minister or ministry. / Having the power to wield delegated executive authority.

(historical) A member of the mediaeval estate or caste of unfree nobles.

(politics) A member of the executive branch of a government who has been appointed to the cabinet, the group of leading policy makers, advisers, and overseers of governmental departments who report to the prime minister.

The cabinet official in charge of relationships with foreign nations.