How Do You Spell PIGMY?

Pronunciation: [pˈɪɡmi] (IPA)

The word "pigmy" is a variant spelling of the term "pygmy," which refers to a member of a small-statured ethnic group from Central Africa. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /ˈpɪɡmi/, with stress on the first syllable. The spelling of the word can be attributed to the evolution of English orthography over time, which sometimes results in multiple accepted spellings for the same word. However, it is important to note that "pygmy" is the more commonly accepted spelling in modern usage.

PIGMY Meaning and Definition

1. A pigmy, also spelled as pygmy, is a noun referring to a member of a certain ethnic group characterized by being short in stature. Historically, the term was often used in a derogatory manner to describe certain indigenous peoples of Africa, Asia, and Oceania who were recognized for their smaller physical size compared to other ethnic groups. However, in modern times, this term is considered outdated and offensive due to its pejorative connotations and perpetuation of stereotypes.

   Beyond its anthropological usage, pygmy can also be used as an adjective to describe something very small or diminutive in size. For instance, the term can be applied to animals, objects, or plants that are notably tiny. In this sense, it generally implies a relative diminishment in size compared to what is typical or expected.

   It is crucial to note that the term "pygmy" should be avoided in contemporary discourse due to its offensive nature. Instead, it is recommended to use terms like "short-statured" or specific ethnic group names (such as the Aka people of Central Africa or the Aeta people of the Philippines) to refer to groups that were once labeled as pygmies. This aligns with the principles of respect, inclusivity, and recognition of the diversity and individuality of all human beings.

2. Pygmy.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. • Very small; dwarfish.

   • A dwarf; a person of very small stature.

   • Very small in size.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PIGMY

• oigmy
• ligmy
• -igmy
• 0igmy
• pugmy
• pjgmy
• pkgmy
• pogmy
• p9gmy
• p8gmy
• pifmy
• pivmy
• pibmy
• pihmy
• piymy
• pitmy
• pigny
• pigjy
• pigmt

Etymology of PIGMY

The word "pigmy" originated from the Greek term "pygmaios", which means "of the size of a pygmy" or "dwarf". The Greek term was derived from "pygma", which refers to a measure of length, roughly equivalent to the distance from the elbow to the knuckles. In Greek mythology, the Pygmies were a mythical race of tiny people who were said to be about one cubit (approximately 18 inches) tall. The word "pygmy" later evolved into "pigmy" in the English language, both referring to a person of unusually small size.

Similar spelling word for PIGMY

• pisum.

Plural form of PIGMY is PIGMIES