Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Mini Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔍
Add to dictionary

mini

[ˈmɪni ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

size

very small; of a much smaller size than normal

Synonyms

compact, small, tiny.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mini

Used often for objects or versions of things that are smaller than usual, typically used informally or in marketing to make something sound cute or trendy.

  • She bought a mini refrigerator for her dorm room.
  • Check out this mini laptop, perfect for traveling.
tiny

Emphasizes the very small size of something, often used for emphasis or to express endearment. It can also have a slightly informal tone.

  • Look at that tiny kitten; it's adorable!
  • The apartment is tiny but cozy.
small

General term for anything with a size that is less than usual or expected. Can be used in both formal and informal situations.

  • She lives in a small house on the outskirts of town.
  • The small dog barked loudly.
compact

Refers to something that is closely packed together or designed to take up very little space. Often used for cars, electronics, or organized items.

  • He drives a compact car that's easy to park in the city.
  • The new model features a compact design, ideal for small apartments.

Examples of usage

  • The mini version of the car is perfect for city driving.
  • She wore a mini skirt to the party.
Context #2 | Noun

fashion

a very short skirt or dress

Synonyms

short dress, short skirt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mini

Suitable for casual, trendy, or youthful outfits; typically refers to a very short skirt or dress.

  • She wore a mini to the summer music festival.
  • The store has a variety of minis perfect for the hot weather.
short skirt

Specifically refers to skirts that are above the knee, can be worn in casual, school, party, or informal work settings.

  • She decided on a short skirt and blouse for her date.
  • In the summer, many people prefer wearing short skirts to stay cool.
short dress

A more general term for a dress that is above the knee, can be used in formal or casual settings depending on the style.

  • For the party, she chose a stunning short dress that showed off her legs.
  • A short dress can be both elegant and comfortable for a night out.

Examples of usage

  • She looked stunning in her black mini.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • Mini skirts became a fashion revolution in the 1960s, representing youth and liberation.
  • The 'mini dress' is a stylish outfit that often celebrates body confidence and bold fashion choices.
  • Today, 'mini' styles influence everything from handbags to jackets, promoting a playful vibe.

Pop Culture

  • Miniature versions of popular characters, like mini Funko Pop figures, have become collector's items.
  • The 'Mini Cooper' car symbolizes fun and a youthful spirit, becoming an icon in car culture.
  • Animated shows often feature mini versions of characters for comedic effect, adding charm and humor.

Technology

  • In the tech world, mini versions of gadgets like the 'Mini PC' offer powerful performance in small packages.
  • Many smartphone manufacturers create 'mini' versions of their flagship models to cater to users who prefer compact devices.
  • 3D printing technology has made it easier to create mini replicas of real-world objects, enhancing personalization.

Education

  • Mini-lessons in classrooms break down larger topics into manageable pieces, making learning easier.
  • Educational toys often come in mini sizes, helping children develop fine motor skills through play.
  • Mini-conferences allow experts to share knowledge in short, focused sessions, making learning more accessible.

Origin of 'mini'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Mini' comes from the Latin word 'minimus', which means 'smallest'.
  • The term became popular in the 1960s with the rise of mini skirts and mini cars.
  • It's often used as a prefix in English to describe small versions of items, like 'mini-golf' or 'miniature'.

The word 'mini' originated in the 1960s as a shortened form of the word 'miniature'. It gained popularity in fashion and design industries to refer to items of a smaller size than usual. The term 'mini' became associated with youthfulness, modernity, and a sense of fun. It has since become a common word in everyday language to describe anything small or compact.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,310, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.