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.

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