As a Noun: 1. The sign (-) which is put between two numbers in order to show that the second number is being subtracted from the first number. English = minus sign. As Modifier: 1. Used between two numbers when you are doing mathematical operations to show that you are about to subtract the second number from the first. English = minus. 2. Used before a number when talking about the weather and temperatures to mean a temperature below zero degrees. English = minus.