Little: meaning, definitions and examples

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little

[ ˈlɪt(ə)l ]

^{Context #1}

size

Small in size; not big or large.

Synonyms

miniature, small, tiny

Examples of usage

She has a little dog.
I need a little bit of sugar for my tea.

^{Context #2}

quantity

To a small extent; not much.

Synonyms

a bit, slightly, somewhat

Examples of usage

I'm a little tired.
Could you speak a little louder?

^{Context #3}

affectionate term

Used as an affectionate term for a small child.

Synonyms

darling, dear, sweetheart

Examples of usage

Come here, my little one.
Don't worry, little. Everything will be fine.

Translations

Translations of the word "little" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pequeno

🇮🇳 छोटा

🇩🇪 klein

🇮🇩 kecil

🇺🇦 маленький

🇵🇱 mały

🇯🇵 小さい

🇫🇷 petit

🇪🇸 pequeño

🇹🇷 küçük

🇰🇷 작은

🇸🇦 صغير

🇨🇿 malý

🇸🇰 malý

🇨🇳 小的

🇸🇮 majhen

🇮🇸 lítil

🇰🇿 кіші

🇬🇪 პატარა

🇦🇿 kiçik

🇲🇽 pequeño

Word origin

The word 'little' has Old English origins, coming from the word 'lytel.' It has been used in English since the 12th century to describe something small in size. Over time, it has also been used as an affectionate term for small children. The word has evolved to be commonly used in various contexts to describe size, quantity, or endearment.