Miniature: meaning, definitions and examples

When describing a smaller version of something that is typically larger, often with careful craftsmanship or detail.

• She collects miniature teapots
• The museum has a display of miniature models of famous landmarks

Used when referring to a model or representation that is smaller in size compared to the original, often in scientific, architectural, or technical contexts.

• The engineers built a small-scale model of the bridge
• They conducted small-scale trials before full-scale production

Describes something very small in size, often with an emphasis on how diminutive or delicate it is.

• She held a tiny kitten in her hands
• The apartment is tiny, but cozy

Informally, often used to describe something that is smaller than usual, especially in terms of products or versions of things.

• I bought a mini fridge for my dorm room
• They sell mini cupcakes at the bakery

When referring to something that is very small or a smaller version of something, often for objects like art, figurines, or objects created with great detail for display or collection.

• She collects miniature paintings from various artists.
• They had a display of miniature cooking sets from the 19th century.

When talking about a detailed, smaller version of something, usually used in the context of hobby building, architecture, or demonstrating a structure or system's design.

• He enjoys building scale models of famous buildings.
• The engineer presented a scale model of the bridge to the committee.

When referring to an exact copy or reproduction of something, often used for museum exhibits, historical artifacts, or objects of significant value.

• The museum has a replica of the ancient statue.
• They built a replica of the Eiffel Tower in the park.

When describing something that is small in a casual or colloquial manner, often used in everyday conversation. It can also refer to small versions of common items like cars (Mini Cooper) or skirts (mini skirts).

• She drove a mini to work today.
• I bought a mini version of the game to take on trips.

Use it for small replicas or models of larger objects. It often indicates detailed or precise crafting.

• They built a miniature model of the Eiffel Tower.
• He collects miniature cars as a hobby.

A general term to describe something that is not large. It is the most neutral and widely used word among the given options.

• I live in a small apartment.
• She noticed a small crack on the window.

Implies something extremely small and often evokes a sense of endearment or delicacy. It is suitable for describing objects that are notably smaller than usual.

• She held the tiny kitten gently.
• There was a tiny scratch on his glasses.

Commonly used as a prefix to imply something smaller than usual. It is often seen in informal situations or with objects like skirts, cars, or versions of things.

• She drove her new mini car through the city.
• She wore a mini skirt to the party.