Slight

Definition

The term "slight" describes something small in degree, amount, or importance, or the act of treating someone with a lack of respect.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /slaɪt/
• Respelling: slyte

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /slaɪt/
• Respelling: slyte

Etymology

The word "slight" originates from Old Norse "slægr," meaning "smooth or level," and Middle English "slight," which conveyed the meaning of "insubstantial or small."

Derivatives

• Slightly (adverb)
• Slightness (noun)
• Overslight (verb)
• Slighted (verb, past tense)
• Unslight (adjective, archaic)

Synonyms

• Small
• Minor
• Insignificant

Antonyms

• Major
• Significant
• Substantial

Usage

The term "slight" is used to describe minimal changes, differences, or offenses. For example, "She noticed a slight improvement in her performance" (adjective), "He felt slighted by their comments" (verb), or "She considered the comment a slight against her efforts" (noun).

Related Terms

• Subtle: So delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyze.
• Trivial: Of little value or importance.
• Negligible: So small or unimportant as to be not worth considering.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Small in degree or amount: Refers to something minimal or not significant.
  • Example: "There was only a slight chance of rain."
• Thin or delicate in build: Refers to a person's physical appearance.
  • Example: "She had a slight frame."

Verb

• To insult by treating with disrespect or neglect: Refers to the act of overlooking or undervaluing someone.
  • Example: "He felt slighted when they ignored his proposal."

Noun

• An act of disrespect or insult: Refers to an action that shows disregard.
  • Example: "She took the comment as a personal slight."