Nmin

nmin is a compact designation used across mathematics, computer science, and data-related fields to indicate a minimum value associated with a quantity n. Because there is no universal definition, the exact meaning of nmin depends on the context in which it appears.

In mathematics, nmin is often shorthand for the minimum value taken by a collection indexed by n, for example min{a1, a2, ..., an} or the least element of a set parameterized by n. In optimization and in inequality constraints, nmin commonly appears as a lower bound: nmin ≤ n, indicating the smallest admissible value of n in a given problem.

In programming and data processing, nmin is frequently used as an identifier for a function, variable, or constant that stores or computes a minimum across n inputs or iterations. Depending on the codebase, it may be written as nmin, min_n, or N_MIN and may implement operations such as returning the minimum of a list of n numbers.

In statistics and experimental design, nmin refers to the minimum sample size or the minimum number of observations required to achieve a desired level of validity or power.

Etymology and usage notes: nmin combines the letter n, often representing count or a parameter, with min, the standard abbreviation for minimum. Because meanings vary by discipline, it is important to refer to the specific definition given in a text or codebase.

See also: min, minimum, nmax, n_min.