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Minuscule Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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minuscule

[ˈmɪnɪˌskjuːl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

written text

extremely small; tiny

Synonyms

minute, small, tiny.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
minuscule

Used when emphasizing how extremely small something is, often in academic or technical contexts.

  • The differences between the two samples are minuscule.
  • He received a minuscule amount of funding for his research.
tiny

Used informally to refer to something extremely small, often in a more exaggerated or playful way.

  • She held a tiny kitten in her hands.
  • A tiny bug crawled across the desk.
small

Used in everyday language to describe something that is less in size, quantity, or extent.

  • She lives in a small town.
  • He gave me a small piece of cake.
minute

Applied when detailing something very small in size or amount, often with a sense of precision.

  • There was a minute crack in the glass.
  • The minute details of the mechanism were fascinating.

Examples of usage

  • The minuscule writing on the ancient manuscript was barely visible to the naked eye.
  • She found a minuscule bug crawling on her desk.
Context #2 | Noun

typography

a small cursive script developed in the 7th century as a simplified form of the uncial, used in medieval manuscripts

Synonyms

cursive script, lowercase, small letters.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
minuscule

Used to describe something extremely tiny or very small in size. Often used in scientific or formal contexts.

  • The contamination was minuscule and didn't pose any threat.
  • His contribution was minuscule compared to others.
cursive script

Refers to a style of writing in which the letters are connected, typically used in handwriting.

  • Students are learning cursive script in their writing class.
  • Her beautiful cursive script is admired by everyone.
small letters

A colloquial way to refer to lowercase letters. Often used in casual conversation or when explaining writing to children.

  • Write your spelling words in small letters.
  • Small letters are easier for some people to write quickly.
lowercase

Describes letters in the alphabet that are not capitalized. Commonly used when talking about typing or writing rules.

  • Type your username in lowercase letters.
  • Names should start with an uppercase letter, not lowercase.

Examples of usage

  • The scribe meticulously copied the text in minuscule onto the parchment.
  • The book was written in minuscule, making it difficult to read for those unfamiliar with the script.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, minuscule measurements can refer to things at the nanoscale, like nanoparticles.
  • Microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, are often described as being minuscule in size, impacting ecosystems significantly.
  • Minuscule objects can have unique properties, such as superhydrophobic surfaces that repel water.

Art

  • Artists sometimes use minuscule details in paintings to convey deeper meanings or add complexity.
  • Miniature art is a genre that celebrates the beauty in very small artwork, often requiring a magnifying glass to appreciate fully.
  • The practice of creating minuscule sculptures, like microminiatures, showcases impressive precision and patience.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that perceiving very small changes in environment can significantly impact mood and behavior.
  • Minuscule details in daily interactions often go unnoticed but can affect relationships and social dynamics.
  • The 'minuscule effect' refers to how small, seemingly insignificant events can lead to significant personal transformations over time.

Origin of 'minuscule'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Latin word 'minusculus,' which means 'rather small.'
  • The term evolved from the Medieval Latin 'minuscula,' referring to lowercase letters in scripts.
  • 'Minuscule' was first recorded in English in the 19th century, primarily used in typography.

The word 'minuscule' originates from the Latin word 'minusculus', meaning rather small. In the context of typography, minuscule refers to a small cursive script developed in the 7th century. Over time, the term has also been used more broadly to describe anything extremely small or tiny. The evolution of minuscule as an adjective to describe size reflects the changing nature of written language and the development of script styles throughout history.

See also: minus.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,158, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.