Pronunciation: [bˈantam] (IPA) 
The word "bantam" is spelled as [ˈbæn.təm] in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "ban," is pronounced with the short "a" sound as in "cat." The second syllable, "tam," is pronounced with the schwa sound, which is the weak vowel sound, like the "a" in "sofa." The spelling of "bantam" is believed to have originated from the Bantam region in Indonesia, where small chicken breeds were first imported to Europe in the 16th century.
Bantam is a noun that refers to a small breed of chicken, specifically the Dutch or Indonesian breed known for its diminutive size. These chickens are typically one-fourth to one-third of the size of standard chicken breeds. They have distinctive features such as a compact body, short legs, and a decorative comb.
In the context of sports, bantam also refers to a weight class or division, typically in combat sports such as boxing or mixed martial arts. It categorizes competitors who weigh below the featherweight division. The bantamweight class is often characterized by fast-paced and agile athletes due to their lower body weight.
Furthermore, "bantam" can also be used as an adjective to describe something small, diminutive, or compact in size. It is often used metaphorically to describe a person who is small in stature or a small object or creature. Additionally, the term can be used to describe an action or a mannerism that is lively, spirited, or energetic.
Overall, "bantam" is primarily used to describe a small breed of chicken, but it also has secondary senses in the realm of sports and a metaphorical usage to describe smallness, agility, or liveliness.
• A small breed of fowls with feathered legs-probably from Bantam in Java.
• Applied to the breed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "bantam" has an interesting etymology. It is derived from the name of a region in Java, Indonesia called Bantam. In the 17th century, European sailors and traders, particularly the Dutch, were introduced to a small breed of chicken in Bantam that was popular for its small size and ornamental appearance.
These chickens were eventually introduced to Europe, where they became known as "Bantams". The term "bantam" was then adopted to describe anything small or miniature in size. Over time, the word "bantam" expanded beyond its initial association with chickens and became a general term to describe small breeds of various animals or anything of diminutive size.
The usage of "bantam" has since diversified to also refer to a type of boxing weight class, as well as individuals who are small in stature but compensate for it with great determination or spirit.
