Minuscule

/ˈmɪn.ə.skjuːl/ adjective

Definition

Extremely small or tiny, so little that it's hard to notice or measure.

Etymology

From Latin 'minusculus' meaning 'rather small,' derived from 'minus' (less). The spelling with 'minuscule' rather than 'miniscule' preserves the original Latin root, though the incorrect 'miniscule' is commonly used.

Kelly Says

People often misspell this as 'miniscule' because they think of 'mini,' but the true root is 'minus'—it literally means 'less-like.' This spelling battle has been going on so long that some dictionaries now accept both versions!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.