Mi*nor"i*ty (?), n.; pl. Minorities (#). [Cf. F. minorit'e. See Minor, a. & n.]
1.
The state of being a minor, or under age.
2.
State of being less or small.
[Obs.]
Sir T. Browne.
3.
The smaller number; -- opposed to majority; as, the minority must be ruled by the majority.
© Webster 1913.