diminutive
UK/di'minjutiv/US
TOEFLC2
Definitions
adj.
Extremely small; tiny.
极小的，矮小的。
n.
A word form expressing smallness or affection (e.g. 'duckling', 'Johnny').
指小词；爱称（如 duckling、Johnny）。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom diminuere ('to lessen'), same source as diminish. As an adjective it means 'very small.' As a grammar term, a diminutive is a form that adds a 'smallness/affection' twist to a word — the -ling in duckling, the -y/-ie in Johnny/doggie. Both senses are just 'made smaller.'
Root minu still carries 49 more wordsExample Sentences
- 1.
Despite her diminutive size, she was a fearless climber.
- 2.
'Piglet' is a diminutive of 'pig'.