minority group
a population subgroup with social, religious, ethnic, racial, or other characteristics that differ from those of the majority of the population. The term is sometimes extended to cover any group that is the subject of oppression and discrimination, whether or not it literally comprises a minority of the population. When members of groups historically considered minorities make up more than 50% of an area’s population, that jurisdiction is described as majority-minority. See also ethnic group; subculture.