Runtiest: meaning, definitions and examples
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runtiest
[ ˈrʌntɪɛst ]
descriptive quality
Runtiest refers to the state of being the smallest or least physically developed among a group. It is often used to describe animals, particularly in a litter where one is noticeably smaller and weaker than its siblings. The term can also extend to human contexts when discussing individuals who may be perceived as lesser in stature or presence. The runtiest individual may struggle for resources and attention, making this characterization often negative. This term is derived from 'runt', which directly pertains to smallness.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The runtiest puppy always got the leftovers.
- In a race, the runtiest of the group surprisingly finished last.
- She was the runtiest of the siblings, but her spirit was unmatched.
Translations
Translations of the word "runtiest" in other languages:
🇵🇹 o mais magro
🇮🇳 सबसे कमजोर
🇩🇪 der dünnste
🇮🇩 yang paling kurus
🇺🇦 найхудіший
🇵🇱 najszczuplejszy
🇯🇵 最も痩せた
🇫🇷 le plus maigre
🇪🇸 el más delgado
🇹🇷 en zayıf
🇰🇷 가장 마른
🇸🇦 الأكثر نحافة
🇨🇿 nejhubenější
🇸🇰 najchudší
🇨🇳 最瘦的
🇸🇮 najtanjši
🇮🇸 minnsta
🇰🇿 ең арық
🇬🇪 ყველაზე თხელი
🇦🇿 ən arıq
🇲🇽 el más delgado
Etymology
The term 'runt' has its origins in Middle English, from the word 'runte', which referred to a small or undersized animal, particularly in a litter of offspring. Etymologically, it is possibly derived from Old Norse 'rúntr', which means a small creature or one that is not fully developed. The '-iest' suffix indicates a superlative degree, thus 'runtiest' emphasizes that one is the most runty among a group. The usage of 'runt' has evolved over time to represent not just physical size but also traits associated with being small, such as perceived vulnerability or inferiority. This has led to the term being employed in various contexts, including agriculture, animal breeding, and even in colloquial speech describing people. The growing awareness of animal welfare and advocacy for equal treatment has also prompted a more nuanced understanding of such terms in contemporary discussions.