minimus

Minimus is a Latin term meaning the smallest. In scientific naming, minimus is used as an epithet to denote the smallest member of a related group, particularly in anatomy and taxonomy. It signals a relative size relationship and is often paired with counterparts such as maximus (the largest) in anatomical nomenclature.

In anatomy, minimus is most familiar as a suffix identifying the smallest muscle or part within a family of structures. The best-known example is gluteus minimus, a muscle of the hip region. The gluteus minimus lies beneath the gluteus medius and originates from the external surface of the ilium between the anterior and inferior gluteal lines. It inserts on the anterior border of the greater trochanter of the femur. Its primary actions are abduction of the thigh and medial rotation, and it helps stabilize the pelvis during locomotion. The muscle is innervated by the superior gluteal nerve and receives blood from the superior gluteal vessels.

Beyond gluteus minimus, the epithet minimus is used in anatomical naming to indicate smaller counterparts within related groups, and it appears in various contexts where size differentiation is relevant. The naming convention reflects a broader Latin practice in science to convey size relationships succinctly, with magnus or major used for larger counterparts.

See also: Gluteus medius, anatomy of the hip, Latin in anatomical nomenclature.