miniseries

UK: ˈmɪn.iˌsɪə.riːz | US: ˈmɪn.iˌsɪr.iːz

Definition
  1. n. a television or radio drama presented in a limited number of episodes, typically with a self-contained story.

Structure
mini <small>series <sequence>
Etymology

miniseries = mini<small> + series<sequence>

  • mini (from Latin minimus, meaning "smallest"): Used in English to denote a smaller or condensed version of something.
  • series (from Latin series, meaning "sequence" or "succession"): Refers to a set of related events, items, or episodes.

Etymology Origin:
The term miniseries emerged in the mid-20th century, combining mini- (a prefix indicating small scale) with series (a sequence of connected episodes). It reflects the trend of producing shorter, more focused narrative formats compared to traditional multi-season TV shows. The word's structure clearly communicates its purpose: a compact, episodic story.

Examples
  1. The new miniseries about the Civil War has received critical acclaim.

  2. She binge-watched the entire miniseries in one weekend.

  3. The network plans to release a miniseries adaptation of the bestselling novel.

  4. Unlike regular TV shows, a miniseries usually has a predetermined ending.

  5. The documentary miniseries explores the lives of endangered species.