minivan

American  

[min-ee-van] / ˈmɪn iˌvæn /

Or mini-van

noun

minivans plural

1. a small passenger van, somewhat larger than a station wagon, typically with side or rear windows and rear seats that can be removed for hauling small loads.

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minivan British  

/ ˈmɪnɪˌvæn /

noun

1. a small van, esp one with seats in the back for carrying passengers

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• minivans
  plural

Etymology

Origin of minivan

mini- + van ²

Example Sentences

While GM is its main customer, the plant also makes components for another automotive supplier and for Chrysler’s Pacifica minivan.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

The Duffys are not ordinary Americans piling into a minivan for a modest summer vacation.

From Salon • May 18, 2026

"It is not nice; we don't want to pay more for gas," acknowledged the cameraman as he got his credit card ready to fill up his minivan.

From Barron's • May 2, 2026

The brand that invented the minivan in the 1980s, and with it a style that became shorthand for American suburban family life, is fighting for survival.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

We waited in the minivan, watching him as he crossed the street.

From "Crenshaw" by Katherine Applegate