Tiny

Definition

Tiny is an adjective describing something that is extremely small in size, scale, or amount.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtaɪ.ni/
• Respelling: TYE-nee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtaɪ.ni/
• Respelling: TYE-nee

Etymology

The word "tiny" is derived from Middle English "tine" or "teen," meaning "to become less," influenced by Scandinavian languages. The suffix "-y" was added to form its modern diminutive sense, first recorded in the 16th century.

Derivatives

• Tinier (adjective, comparative)
• Tiniest (adjective, superlative)
• Tininess (noun)
• Teeny (adjective, informal)
• Teensy (adjective, informal)

Synonyms

• Small
• Minute
• Petite

Antonyms

• Large
• Huge
• Massive

Usage

The adjective "tiny" is frequently used to describe very small objects or amounts. For example, "The kitten had a tiny spot on its ear."

Related Terms

• Microscopic: Extremely small, often only visible with a microscope.
• Minuscule: Very small or tiny in size.
• Compact: Small and efficiently arranged.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Extremely small in size: Refers to something much smaller than the average or expected size.
  • Example: "The box contained a tiny figurine."
• Insignificant in amount or scale: Describes a minimal quantity or extent.
  • Example: "She added a tiny pinch of salt to the recipe."