tiny

UK: ˈtaɪni | US: ˈtaɪni

Definition

  1. adj. very small in size or amount

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

tiny = tin<small> + y<adjective suffix>

  • tin: Derived from Middle English tine, meaning "small" or "little," possibly influenced by Old English tyn (small).
  • y: A common English suffix used to form adjectives, indicating "characterized by" or "full of."

Etymology Origin:
The word tiny emerged in Middle English (late 14th century), likely as an alteration of tine (small) with the adjectival suffix -y. Its core meaning of "very small" has remained consistent, though its usage expanded metaphorically (e.g., "a tiny chance"). The playful, diminutive sound of tiny reinforces its association with smallness.

Examples

  1. The kitten was so tiny it fit in the palm of my hand.

  2. She added a tiny amount of salt to the recipe.

  3. The apartment was tiny but cozy.

  4. A tiny crack in the glass eventually spread.

  5. He felt a tiny spark of hope after the good news.