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Smallest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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smallest

[หˆsmษ”หlษชst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

size

Comparative of small; of a size that is less than average or usual.

Synonyms

microscopic, minuscule, tiniest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smallest

Use this word when comparing sizes directly within a defined group and indicating the item with the least size.

  • Of all the puppies, this one is the smallest
  • He has the smallest chance of winning
tiniest

Similar to 'smallest', this word indicates the least size, often used to convey a sense of endearment or emphasis on how small something is.

  • She held the tiniest kitten in the palm of her hand
  • This is the tiniest detail, but it's important
minuscule

Use this word to emphasize how extremely small something is, often in everyday situations.

  • I found a minuscule crack on the screen
  • The font on this document is minuscule
microscopic

Typically used in scientific contexts to describe objects that are extremely small and require a microscope to be seen.

  • Microscopic organisms can be found in pond water
  • The bacteria are microscopic in size

Examples of usage

  • She wore the smallest size of shoes available.
  • The smallest puppy in the litter was also the cutest.
Context #2 | Noun

mathematics

The number or value in a set of numbers or values that is the least in the set.

Synonyms

least, lowest, minimum.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smallest

Use when comparing sizes or amounts directly, often in physical dimensions or numerical values.

  • She got the smallest piece of cake.
  • This is the smallest country in the world.
minimum

Use when referring to the smallest amount or level allowed or possible, often in technical or formal contexts.

  • The minimum age requirement for this job is 18.
  • He reached the minimum speed limit.
lowest

Use when referring to the lowest point, level, or rank, often in a context that involves comparison.

  • This is the lowest temperature recorded this year.
  • She achieved the lowest score in the class.
least

Use when comparing quantities or amounts, often in a more abstract or generalized context.

  • She showed the least interest in the project.
  • He has the least amount of free time.

Examples of usage

  • In the sequence 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 2 is the smallest number.
Context #3 | Noun

size

The smallest size or amount of something.

Synonyms

least, lowest, minimum.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smallest

Used to describe something that has the smallest size or amount in a group.

  • She chose the smallest piece of cake.
  • This is the smallest room in the house.
minimum

Used to refer to the smallest amount or degree that is allowed or possible.

  • The minimum age for entry is 18 years.
  • We need a minimum of five people to start the activity.
least

Used to refer to the smallest degree or amount, especially in comparisons.

  • She was the least experienced member of the team.
  • This is the least expensive option available.
lowest

Used to describe the position closest to the ground or the smallest level or degree in terms of value or position.

  • The hotel offers the lowest rates in town.
  • He scored the lowest mark in the exam.

Examples of usage

  • She only took the smallest piece of cake.
  • The smallest of the three apples was still juicy and delicious.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In the animal kingdom, the bumblebee bat holds the record for the smallest mammal, weighing as little as a penny.
  • Nanotechnology explores materials and devices at the smallest scale, typically at the level of atoms and molecules.
  • The concept of 'smallest' extends to physics, where particles like quarks are considered fundamental building blocks of matter.

Art

  • Miniature art has been a subject of fascination, with artists creating detailed works on a tiny scale, showcasing remarkable skill.
  • In literature, the theme of the smallest character, such as hobbits in 'The Lord of the Rings', often symbolizes unexpected strength and courage.
  • The Japanese art of 'chibi' features exaggeratedly small and cute character designs, captivating audiences around the world.

Cultural Expressions

  • In various cultures, the idea of 'smallness' is often connected to humility and simplicity, as seen in Zen philosophy.
  • Fairy tales often feature the smallest beings, like Thumbelina, showing that size doesnโ€™t determine oneโ€™s abilities or impact.
  • Phrases like 'small but mighty' emphasize that even the smallest entities can play significant roles in stories and life.

Technology

  • Advancements in technology have led to the development of increasingly smaller devices, like smartphones that fit in your pocket.
  • The term 'smallest' is frequently used in tech product marketing, aiming to attract users by emphasizing portability and efficiency.
  • Modern computing has transformed, with the smallest transistors in microprocessors enabling greater processing power in increasingly compact forms.

Origin of 'smallest'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'smallest' comes from the Old English 'smael', which means narrow or little.
  • As the language evolved, this form transitioned in Middle English to 'smalle' before becoming 'small'.
  • The superlative form 'smallest' highlights an extreme degree of smallness in comparison to others.

The word 'smallest' originated from the Middle English word 'smalest', which is the superlative form of 'smale' meaning 'small'. The word 'small' itself has Old English and Germanic roots. Over time, 'smallest' has been used to describe the least or tiniest in size or quantity, and has been a commonly used comparative adjective in English language.

See also: small, smaller, smallness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,878, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.