minorities

noun

1. 1

   The state of being a minor; youth, the period of a person's life prior to reaching adulthood.

2. 2

   Any subgroup that does not form a numerical majority.

   “Most people agreed, but a sizable minority were upset by the decision.”

3. 3

   (used attributively of a party, government, etc.) Empowered by or representing a minority (usually a plurality) of votes cast, legislative seats, etc., rather than an outright majority thereof.

4. 4

   A member of an ethnic minority.

   “The company claims it has hired several minorities since the complaint was lodged.”