What is "de minimus"

Minimus \Min"i*mus\, n.; pl. Minimi. [L. See Minim.]

1. A being of the smallest size. [Obs.]
   --Shak.

2. (Anat.) The little finger; the fifth digit, or that corresponding to it, in either the manus or pes.

   de minimis or de minimus a.of trifling consequence or importance; too insignificant to be worthy of concern; -- a reference to the phrase de minimis non curat lex.

   de minimis non curat lex [Latin] The law does not concern itself with trifles; -- a principle of law, that even if a technical violation of a law appears to exist according to the letter of the law, if the effect is too small to be of consequence, the violation of the law will not be considered as a sufficient cause of action, whether in civil or criminal proceedings.