Small

Definition

The word "small" refers to something of limited size, amount, or importance. It can describe physical dimensions, quantity, or significance.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /smɔl/
• Respelling: SMAWL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /smɔːl/
• Respelling: SMAWL

Etymology

The word "small" originates from the Old English "smael," meaning "thin, narrow, or slender." It is related to Old High German "smal" (small) and Dutch "smal" (narrow). Over time, the term evolved to encompass general notions of limited size or significance.

Derivatives

• Smallness (noun)
• Smallish (adjective)
• Smaller (adjective)
• Small-scale (adjective)
• Small-minded (adjective)

Synonyms

• Tiny
• Miniature
• Little

Antonyms

• Large
• Big
• Huge

Usage

The term "small" is commonly used in various contexts to describe limited dimensions or significance. For example, "She bought a small bag for her trip," or "It's a small price to pay for such benefits."

Related Terms

• Compact: Closely packed or dense, often referring to smaller dimensions.
• Petite: Small and delicately built, often used to describe people.
• Minor: Describing something of less importance or size.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Of limited size or extent: Refers to physical dimensions that are smaller than usual.
  • Example: "They lived in a small cottage in the woods."
• Of little significance or importance: Describes something that is not major or impactful.
  • Example: "It was a small mistake that didn’t affect the project."

Noun

• Something small in size: Refers to an object or entity of limited dimensions.
  • Example: "The large and the small are all treated equally in the competition."