Slight

Verb

Definition: Insult (someone) by treating or speaking of them without proper respect or attention.

Synonyms: Insult, Offend, Disrespect

Antonyms: Honor, Respect, Value

Examples:

She felt slighted when her colleagues ignored her at the meeting.
His dismissive attitude towards her work slighted her efforts and dedication.

Mnemonics:

Think of someone feeling hurt or offended by a rude comment, causing a slight wound to their emotions.
Slight sounds like "slide", imagine someone sliding past you without acknowledging your presence, making you feel slighted.

Adjective

Definition: Small in degree; of little importance or significance.

Definition: Thin or delicate in build or structure.

Synonyms: Small, Minor, Insignificant

Antonyms: Significant, Substantial, Major

Examples:

The slight breeze rustled the leaves on the trees.
The opposition candidate won by a slight margin.

Mnemonics:

Slight sounds similar to "light", think of something that is not heavy or substantial.
Imagine a delicate, slight figure walking gracefully.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English (as a verb): from Old Norse slétta 'make level, make smooth' or Old English slihtan 'level'. The adjective dates from the mid 16th century.

Historical Usage:

The verb "slight" originated from Old Norse and Old English, and over time, it developed into a verb meaning to insult or offend someone. The adjective form of slight emerged in the 16th century to describe something small or of little significance.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Give someone the slight shoulder"

Explanation:

To deliberately ignore or snub someone.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing the verb form of "slight" with the adjective form.

Explanation:

The verb form of "slight" refers to insulting or disrespecting someone, while the adjective form describes something as small or of little importance. It's important to differentiate between the two forms to avoid confusion.