Minimum wage is the ____ hourly wage that an employer can legally pay for a worker's services.

Minimum wage represents the legally mandated lowest hourly wage that an employer is allowed to pay a worker for their services. This regulation is designed to protect workers from exploitation and ensure that they receive a fair, basic compensation for their labor. By setting a minimum standard, it aims to provide a safety net for employees, especially in industries where wages might otherwise fall below a livable standard.

In contrast, the other options describe different concepts: the starting wage can vary based on experience or negotiation, the highest wage does not apply to minimum wage laws as it suggests a ceiling rather than a floor, and the average wage reflects a broader range of earnings that may include higher-paying roles, which is different from the goal of minimum wage legislation that specifically establishes a fundamental baseline.