Diminutive
Adjective
Definition: Extremely or unusually small.
Synonyms: Tiny, Minuscule, Petite
Antonyms: Huge, Massive, Gigantic
Examples:
- The puppy's diminutive size made it even more adorable.
- She wore a diminutive hat that barely covered her head.
Mnemonics:
- The word "diminutive" sounds like "miniature," which also means very small.
Etymology:
Origin:
The word "diminutive" comes from the Latin word "diminutivus," which is derived from the verb "diminuere," meaning "to lessen" or "to make smaller."
Historical Usage:The term has been used in English since the mid-16th century to describe small or diminished things.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"In diminutive form"
Explanation:Referring to something that has been reduced or made smaller in size or scale.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "diminutive" with "diminished" or "insignificant."
Explanation:While "diminutive" does refer to something small, it does not imply lack of importance or significance. It simply denotes a reduced size or scale.