The word "slight" is spelled with the letters s-l-i-g-h-t. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /slaɪt/. The "s" is pronounced as an unvoiced "s" sound, the "l" is pronounced with the tongue touching the roof of the mouth, the "i" is pronounced as a long "i" sound, the "g" is pronounced as a voiced "g" sound, the "h" is silent, and the "t" is pronounced as an unvoiced "t" sound. This word can be used as both a noun and a verb, meaning "small" or "insignificant."
The term "slight" functions as an adjective and a verb, each with its own distinct meanings. As an adjective, "slight" refers to something small in degree, importance, or intensity. It implies a minimal or negligible amount or impact. For instance, when used to describe an attack or injury, it indicates a minor or superficial harm. Similarly, in relation to a person's build or figure, it suggests a slim or delicate physique. Furthermore, "slight" can also describe a person's manner or behavior, indicating a lack of seriousness, importance, or concern.
As a verb, "slight" means to treat someone with indifference, disregard, or disrespect. It involves showing a lack of consideration or courtesy towards an individual, often resulting in their feelings being hurt. This action can be intentional or unintentional, and it involves underestimating or undervaluing the worth or significance of the person or their ideas.
Overall, "slight" encompasses the notions of insignificance, smallness, superficiality, indifference, and disregard.
• Superficial; not through; not deep, as an impression; faint; small; inconsiderable; trifling; not done with effort; not forcible.
• A moderate degree of contempt, manifested by neglect or indifference; disregard; disdain.
• To disregard, as of no importance or unworthy of consideration; to neglect.
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 "slight" originates from the Middle English word "sliȝt" or "sleȝt", which means "smooth" or "flattering". This word derived from the Old Norse word "sléttr", meaning "smooth", which is related to the Old High German word "slīz", meaning "smooth" or "tidy". The modern meaning of "slight" as "small in degree or significance" emerged during the late 14th century.