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Wee: meaning, definitions and examples

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wee

 

[wiː ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

small size

Very small; tiny.

Synonyms

little, small, tiny.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wee

This word is often used in Scottish or Irish English to describe something very small in a charming or affectionate way.

  • Look at that wee dog! It's so cute.
  • I'll be with you in a wee moment.
tiny

This word emphasizes something extremely small and is often used to express surprise or emphasize size.

  • The baby held a tiny kitten in its arms.
  • Those tiny insects can hardly be seen.
small

This is the most neutral and formal word in the list. It is used to describe something of limited size without any emotional context.

  • The small car fits into tight parking spaces.
  • A small amount of sugar is needed for the recipe.
little

This word is commonly used in everyday English to describe something smaller than normal. It can sound casual, and is often used when speaking affectionately.

  • She has a little house by the lake.
  • Wait a little longer, please.

Examples of usage

  • It's just a wee kitten.
  • She took a wee sip of her drink.
Context #2 | Noun

Scottish slang

A short period of time.

Synonyms

brief, quick, short.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wee

Used mostly in informal speech, especially in Scottish and Irish dialects, to describe something very small or a short amount of time.

  • I'll be with you in a wee moment
  • Let's go for a wee walk
short

Describes something that does not last long or is not tall/long. Can have a negative connotation if implying insufficiency.

  • He gave a short speech
  • Our vacation was too short
brief

Applied when talking about something that does not take much time or is expressed in few words. Often used in more formal contexts.

  • We had a brief meeting this morning
  • I gave a brief summary of the report
quick

Used to describe actions or events that happen rapidly or in a short time frame. Often implies efficiency or speed.

  • She made a quick decision
  • I need to run a quick errand

Examples of usage

  • I'll be back in a wee bit.
Context #3 | Adjective

informal

Having a very small amount of something.

Synonyms

little, modest, small.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wee

Typically used in informal British and Scottish English to describe something very small. It can have a sentimental or affectionate tone.

  • The baby had a wee smile on her face
  • Let's have a wee chat before dinner
small

General term for describing something of limited size or extent. It is neutral and widely applicable to various situations.

  • They live in a small apartment
  • I have a small favor to ask
little

Commonly used to describe something small in size or quantity. Can also convey affection when talking about children or objects.

  • She lives in a little house by the lake
  • Look at that little puppy!
modest

Usually describes something that is not large or luxurious, often relating to someone's lifestyle, behavior, or achievements. It suggests humility or simplicity.

  • He leads a modest life in the countryside
  • She received a modest pay raise this year

Examples of usage

  • Just a wee drop of milk in my tea, please.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term originates from the Scottish word 'wee', which means small or little.
  • In the 17th century, it was adopted into English vernacular, reflecting tales of diminutive figures or characters.
  • The word has evolved to be commonly used in both British and American English, especially in informal contexts.

Cultural References

  • In Scottish culture, the phrase 'wee lass' or 'wee lad' affectionately refers to a young girl or boy.
  • The term is often used in children's literature and songs to evoke a sense of innocence and playfulness.
  • In popular culture, characters like 'wee folk' or 'wee ones' represent small, magical beings in fairy tales.

Psychology

  • Using diminutive forms like 'wee' can create an emotional connection and convey affection.
  • People often associate smaller size with cuteness, which can evoke feelings of warmth and protectiveness.
  • Language researchers suggest that such terms help foster positive communication, especially in family settings.

Literature

  • 'Wee' is commonly found in children's books, enhancing descriptions of characters or objects to spark imagination.
  • Authors often use this word to contrast size, invoking imagery that emphasizes the vastness of the environment around something tiny.
  • In poetry, 'wee' can add a whimsical and melodic touch, enriching the overall rhythm.

Science

  • In biology, diminutive terms help categorize organisms, such as 'wee beasties', referring to microscopic life forms.
  • The concept of smallness in science can denote significant principles, like the wee amount of energy in quantum mechanics.
  • Scientists often use diminutive descriptors when referencing delicate or minor phenomena to draw attention to their importance.

Translations

Translations of the word "wee" in other languages:

🇵🇹 xixi

🇮🇳 पेशाब

🇩🇪 Pipi

🇮🇩 kencing

🇺🇦 сеча

🇵🇱 sik

🇯🇵 おしっこ

🇫🇷 pipi

🇪🇸 pipí

🇹🇷 pıhı

🇰🇷 오줌

🇸🇦 بول

🇨🇿 čůrat

🇸🇰 cikať

🇨🇳 尿

🇸🇮 urinirati

🇮🇸 þvag

🇰🇿 зәр

🇬🇪 სისხლი

🇦🇿 sidik

🇲🇽 pipí

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,899, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.