Smaller Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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smaller

[หˆsmษ”หlษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

size

Comparative form of the adjective 'small'. Having a size less than average or usual.

Synonyms

lesser, lesser-sized, tinier.

Examples of usage

  • The smaller box is on the top shelf.
  • She prefers smaller dogs over larger ones.
Context #2 | Adverb

size

In a small size or to a small extent.

Synonyms

less, to a lesser degree.

Examples of usage

  • She smiled smaller than usual.
  • He sings smaller than his brother.
Context #3 | Noun

mathematics

A number or quantity that is less than another.

Synonyms

inferior, lesser.

Examples of usage

  • The smaller of the two numbers is 5.
  • Find the smaller angle in the triangle.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, smaller objects can engage differently with forces like gravity than larger ones.
  • A study in biology shows that smaller species often have faster metabolisms than their larger counterparts.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, smallness can symbolize humility or simplicity, representing values like modesty.
  • The Japanese aesthetic of 'wabi-sabi' celebrates the beauty found in the small and imperfect.

Literature

  • In children's books, smaller characters often represent innocence or playfulness, engaging young readers' imaginations.
  • Famous literary works frequently use 'smaller' to contrast with grand themes, exploring topics of love, loss, and perspective.

Pop Culture

  • Animated characters that are smaller often become comical or endearing, like the mini-characters from 'Toy Story'.
  • In film, a smaller hero often embarks on significant journeys, showing that size doesn't determine bravery, like in 'The Hobbit'.

Origin of 'smaller'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'smรฆl', which means narrow or little.
  • It evolved into 'smaller' by adding the comparative suffix '-er' to indicate 'more small'.

The word 'smaller' originated from the Old English word 'smรฆlra', which is the comparative form of 'smรฆl' meaning 'small'. Over time, the word has evolved to its current form and usage in the English language. The concept of comparing sizes and quantities has been an essential part of human communication and has led to the development of words like 'smaller' to express this comparison.


See also: small, smallest, smallness.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,162, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.