How Do You Spell SMALL?

Pronunciation: [smˈɔːl] (IPA)

The word "small" is spelled with five letters and pronounced as /smɔːl/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first sound, /s/, is voiceless and produced by pushing air through a narrow opening between the tongue and the alveolar ridge. The second sound is a voiced low back rounded vowel /ɔː/. The third sound, /l/, is a voiced alveolar lateral approximant produced by placing the tip of the tongue behind the top teeth and the sides of the tongue against the upper molars while air flows past the sides of the tongue.

Meaning and Definition
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Other Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
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SMALL Meaning and Definition

  1. Small is an adjective that describes something that is diminutive in size, extent, or amount. It refers to objects, living beings, or concepts that are the opposite of large, big, or significant. It highlights the idea of being tiny, modest, or insufficient in terms of dimensions or magnitude.

    When used to describe an object, small suggests that its physical size or dimensions are minute or lesser in comparison to regular or average proportions. It signifies a compact or condensed nature, making it easily manageable, portable, or limited in space requirements. For example, a small book implies a publication with short length or a compact form.

    In reference to living beings, small typically emphasizes their relatively tiny physical stature or size compared to others of their species. It denotes being miniaturized or undersized, generally relating to animals, insects, or plants. For instance, a small dog is a breed or individual characterized by a diminutive bodily frame or weight.

    In a more subjective context, small can refer to concepts such as importance, significance, or influence. It indicates something that is not substantial or influential in comparison to other entities or ideas. For example, a small gesture might refer to a seemingly minor or insignificant act of kindness or an inconsequential action that holds little impact.

    Overall, the term small describes objects, living beings, or abstract notions that possess limited dimensions, prominence, or significance in relation to their counterparts.

  2. Arteriole.

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

  3. • Not great; slender; of little moment, weight, or importance; little; soft; not loud; trifling.
    • The small or narrow part of anything.

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

Top Common Misspellings for SMALL *

* 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.

Other Common Misspellings for SMALL

Etymology of SMALL

The English word "small" has its origins in the Old English word "smæl", which means "thin, narrow, slender". It is also related to the Old High German word "smal", the Dutch word "smal", and the Old Norse word "smali". These words have a similar meaning of "small" or "narrow". The word likely traces back to the Proto-Germanic root "*smalaz", which suggests the idea of being small or slender.

Idioms with the word SMALL

  • on the large, small, etc. side The idiom "on the large, small, etc. side" refers to expressing a subjective opinion or estimation of something's size, quantity, or scale, usually with an emphasis on it being more or less than expected or desired. It implies a measurement or judgment that is not precise or exact, but gives a general sense of the magnitude or extent.
  • it's a small world The idiom "it's a small world" means that despite the vastness and diversity of the world, people often encounter coincidences, unexpected connections, or familiarity with others regardless of distance or circumstances. It suggests that the world can seem smaller and more interconnected than one may initially perceive.
  • small wonder The idiom "small wonder" usually means that something is not surprising or unexpected, given the circumstances or characteristics involved. It implies that the result or outcome is to be expected, considering the situation.
  • in small doses The idiom "in small doses" is typically used to refer to something that is better or more enjoyable when experienced or consumed in limited quantities or for short periods of time. It suggests that excessive exposure to or prolonged use of something may be unpleasant, overwhelming, or even harmful.
  • little/small wonder The idiomatic expression "little/small wonder" is used to express that something is not surprising or unexpected. It implies that the outcome or situation being described is so obvious or easily understood that it should come as no surprise.
  • make sb look small The idiom "make someone look small" means to diminish a person's importance, skill, or achievements by outshining them, making them appear insignificant or inadequate in comparison. It implies that someone's accomplishments or qualities are overshadowed or belittled by another person's superior performance or attributes.
  • be a big fish in a small pond The idiom "be a big fish in a small pond" means to be highly important, influential, or successful in a limited or confined environment. It implies that the person excels or stands out among a small or less competitive group, but might not have the same level of significance or recognition in a larger, more competitive setting.
  • lay low and sing small The idiom "lay low and sing small" means to adopt a low-profile or stay inconspicuous in order to avoid attention, conflict, or trouble. It suggests remaining quiet, avoiding confrontations, or not drawing attention to oneself in a difficult or sensitive situation.
  • small beer The idiom "small beer" refers to something that is regarded as trivial, unimportant, or of little significance or value. It is often used to describe something that is not worthy of attention or consideration.
  • read the small print The idiom "read the small print" means to carefully review or examine the details and conditions of a contract, agreement, or any document before making a decision or committing to something. It implies being cautious and attentive to the fine print, often to avoid hidden or unfavorable terms and conditions.
  • the fine/small print The idiom "the fine/small print" refers to the specific details or conditions of an agreement or contract that are often written in a smaller font or presented in a less noticeable manner. It implies that these details are often overlooked or ignored but can be important or have significant consequences.
  • small fry The idiom "small fry" refers to something or someone of little importance, significance, or influence. It often refers to young or inexperienced individuals, insignificant matters or details, or lesser or unimportant elements within a larger context.
  • make sb feel small The idiom "make someone feel small" means to belittle or demean someone, usually through words or actions, causing them to feel insignificant, embarrassed, or inferior in some way.
  • a big fish in a small pond The idiom "a big fish in a small pond" refers to a person who is successful, influential, or important within a limited or restricted environment or group, but may not have the same level of recognition or significance in a larger or more competitive context. It implies that in a smaller or less significant setting, an individual's abilities or accomplishments may be more noticeable or impressive compared to their performance on a broader scale.
  • small print The idiom "small print" refers to the fine and often hidden details or conditions that are typically found in contracts, agreements, or terms and conditions. It is often used to caution someone about the potential consequences or restrictions that may not be immediately noticeable unless carefully examined.
  • small change The idiom "small change" refers to something or someone that is unimportant, insignificant, or of little value. It can also refer to a small amount of money, typically in the form of coins.
  • big frog in a small pond The idiom "big frog in a small pond" refers to a person who holds a position of importance or superiority in a small or limited environment. It implies that this individual might appear impressive or influential, but only because they are surrounded by people of lesser ability or competence.
  • make feel small The idiom "make feel small" means to belittle, humiliate, or diminish someone's self-esteem or confidence, usually through words or actions. It refers to the act of making someone feel insignificant or unimportant in order to assert dominance or superiority over them.
  • feel small The idiom "feel small" refers to experiencing a sense of insignificance, inadequacy, or diminished self-esteem in a particular situation or when comparing oneself to others. It often describes a feeling of being belittled or overshadowed.
  • it’s a small world The idiom "it's a small world" is used to convey the notion that the world or a particular situation is surprisingly interconnected or that people often have shared experiences or connections despite physical distance or initial assumptions. It is often used in moments of coincidence or when unexpected connections are revealed.
  • in no small measure The idiom "in no small measure" means to a great extent or significantly. It emphasizes the importance or magnitude of something.
  • don’t sweat the small stuff The idiom "don't sweat the small stuff" means not to worry or get stressed over minor or insignificant things. It suggests focusing on the bigger picture or more important matters and not allowing small details or trivial issues to cause unnecessary concern or distress.
  • great and small The idiom "great and small" refers to a range or variety of things or people, including those of different sizes, importance, or status. It implies inclusion of both significant and insignificant entities within a particular context.
  • in a big/small way The idiom "in a big/small way" is used to describe how something is done or experienced with a significant impact or intensity. It signifies that the action or event is noticeable, notable, or influential, either positively or negatively.
  • look/feel small The idiom "look/feel small" refers to feeling or appearing insignificant, inferior, or unimportant in comparison to others or a particular situation. It implies a sense of being diminished or belittled.
  • a/the still small voice The idiom "a/the still small voice" refers to a quiet, inner voice or intuition that guides and influences a person's thoughts, decisions, or actions. It suggests a gentle and subtle inner guidance or moral compass. It often signifies moments of self-reflection, conscience, or spiritual enlightenment. The phrase originates from the biblical story in 1 Kings 19:12, in which a prophet hears God's voice as a "still small voice" amidst chaos and loud noises.
  • small arms "Small arms" refers to firearms that are portable and can be held and operated by an individual, such as handguns, rifles, or shotguns, as opposed to heavy weapons like artillery or tanks.
  • a big frog in a small pond The expression "a big frog in a small pond" refers to a person who holds a position of power, importance, or influence in a small or limited context, but may not have the same level of significance or recognition in a larger or more competitive environment. This idiom highlights the contrast between someone's inflated self-importance within their small sphere of influence compared to their diminished stature outside of it.
  • a small frog in a big pond The idiom "a small frog in a big pond" refers to a situation where an individual or an entity with little influence or importance is surrounded by a much larger and more significant group. It signifies a feeling of being insignificant, overshadowed, or out of place in a larger or more competitive environment.
  • big fish in a small pond The idiom "big fish in a small pond" refers to someone who is successful, influential, or important in a limited or restricted environment or context. It implies that the person's accomplishments or standing might not be as significant if they were in a larger or more competitive setting.
  • make (one) feel small The idiom "make (one) feel small" means to make someone feel humiliated, belittled, or insignificant, typically through words or actions that undermine their confidence or self-esteem.
  • make someone feel small The idiom "make someone feel small" means to belittle, humiliate, or diminish someone's self-esteem or sense of worth. It refers to the act of making someone feel inferior, insignificant, or unimportant in a manner that disregards their feelings or reduces their confidence.
  • the small print The idiom "the small print" refers to the specific details, terms, or conditions of an agreement or contract that are often written in a smaller font and may easily go unnoticed or ignored. It suggests that one should pay careful attention to these details, as they often contain important information that may have consequences or implications.
  • frog in a small pond The idiom "frog in a small pond" refers to someone who possesses a big fish mentality in a small or limited context. It describes an individual who feels important, successful, or knowledgeable within a small or unchallenging environment but may lack the same level of confidence or success in a larger or more competitive setting.
  • (it's) small wonder The expression "(it's) small wonder" is an idiomatic phrase that means "not surprising at all" or "to be expected." It is used to convey that something is logical or expected due to certain circumstances or factors.
  • best things come in small packages, good things come in small packages The idiom "best things come in small packages" or "good things come in small packages" means that something of great value or quality can be found in something or someone that appears small or unassuming. It emphasizes that size or outward appearances are not always indicative of true worth or potential.
  • engage in small talk The idiom "engage in small talk" refers to the act of having casual, informal conversations about unimportant or light topics, usually with someone you don't know well or when making polite conversation. It typically involves discussing weather, current events, hobbies, or other non-controversial subjects for the purpose of being polite and friendly rather than engaging in deep or meaningful conversation.
  • be grateful for small blessings The idiom "be grateful for small blessings" means to appreciate and feel thankful for the small and often overlooked positive aspects or events in life, especially in challenging or difficult times. It suggests finding contentment and satisfaction in even the littlest things, recognizing their significance, and acknowledging the potential for happiness they bring.
  • cost a bomb/the earth/a packet, at cost an arm and a leg/a small fortune The idiom "cost a bomb/the earth/a packet" and "at cost an arm and a leg/a small fortune" are used interchangeably to describe something that is very expensive or costs a significant amount of money. The phrase "cost a bomb" suggests that something is so expensive that it could be compared to the cost of an explosive bomb. Similarly, "cost the earth" implies that the price of something is equivalent to the value of the entire planet. "Cost a packet" means that something is as expensive as a large sum of money. On the other hand, "at cost an arm and a leg" means that something is so expensive that it feels like you are giving up a vital part of your body, symbolized by
  • miles too big, small, expensive, etc. The idiom "miles too big, small, expensive, etc." is used to express that something is significantly larger, smaller, more expensive, or in a different category than is considered necessary, appropriate, or expected. It emphasizes an extreme degree of difference or inappropriateness.
  • be grateful for small mercies The idiom "be grateful for small mercies" means to appreciate or be thankful for even the smallest or least desirable things or situations in life, as they could be worse or there could be no positive aspects at all. It implies finding solace or contentment in less-than-ideal circumstances and being thankful for whatever positive elements exist within them.
  • big things come in small packages The idiom "big things come in small packages" means that something or someone may appear small or unassuming but possesses great value, importance, or ability. It suggests that physical size or appearance does not always determine quality, significance, or potential.
  • Don't sweat the small stuff The idiom "Don't sweat the small stuff" means not to worry or stress about minor or insignificant things. It suggests that one should focus on the bigger picture and not get caught up in trivial matters.
  • the wee small hours (of the night/morning) The idiom "the wee small hours (of the night/morning)" refers to the early hours or the time just following midnight, typically between 1:00 am and 4:00 am. It emphasizes the late-night or early-morning period when most people are asleep, and it often connotes a sense of stillness, quietness, solitude, and a certain mystical or eerie atmosphere.
  • one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind The idiom "one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind" refers to making a seemingly insignificant or small action that has profound or significant consequences for everyone. It describes the idea that individual actions can have a transformative impact on a larger scale and contribute to the progress or advancement of humanity as a whole.
  • Thank God for small favors. The idiom "Thank God for small favors" is an expression used to express gratitude or relief for a small or modest favor, even though it may not be exactly what one had hoped for or expected. It implies that it is better to appreciate and be thankful for the positive aspects that have occurred, regardless of their size or significance.
  • the best things come in small packages The idiom "the best things come in small packages" means that small or petite things can be just as valuable, impressive, or enjoyable as larger or more elaborate ones. It emphasizes that size or appearance does not necessarily determine the worth or quality of something or someone.
  • grateful/thankful for small mercies The idiom "grateful/thankful for small mercies" refers to the act of appreciating and being thankful for even the smallest or least significant blessings or favorable circumstances in a difficult or challenging situation. It highlights the ability to find consolation or relief in even the tiniest positive aspects amidst hardship or adversity.
  • small hours The idiom "small hours" refers to the period of time late at night or very early in the morning, usually between midnight and dawn. It implies the time when most people are asleep and only a few are still awake.
  • be grateful/thankful for small mercies The idiom "be grateful/thankful for small mercies" means to appreciate or express gratitude for small or minor blessings or fortunate circumstances, especially during difficult or challenging times. It implies finding contentment in the little positive things that occur, even if the overall situation is not ideal.
  • good things come in small packages The idiom "good things come in small packages" means that something or someone's value or quality is not determined by their physical size or appearance. It suggests that something small or small-scale can still possess great worth, importance, or positive qualities.
  • give thanks for small blessings The idiom "give thanks for small blessings" means to express gratitude or appreciation for the small or modest positive things in life, even when faced with challenges or difficulties. It suggests that one should acknowledge and be grateful for any positive or fortunate occurrence, no matter how insignificant it may seem. It emphasizes finding joy and contentment in simple blessings, rather than focusing solely on grand or extraordinary events.
  • a small cog in a large machine The idiom "a small cog in a large machine" refers to an individual who has very little influence or importance in a large organization or system. It implies that the person's role or contribution is insignificant and that they are just one of many working together towards a larger goal.
  • small is beautiful The idiom "small is beautiful" refers to the idea that smaller things or entities can often be more desirable, efficient, and effective than larger ones. It suggests that simplicity, minimalism, and a focus on quality rather than quantity can lead to better outcomes or experiences. It can be applied to various aspects of life, including business, design, and lifestyle choices.
  • cost an arm and a leg/a small fortune The idiom "cost an arm and a leg" or "cost a small fortune" is used to describe something that is extremely expensive or costs a significant amount of money. It emphasizes the idea of having to sacrifice a valuable body part (arm and a leg) or a large amount of wealth (small fortune) in order to obtain or afford something.
  • the small hours (of the night) The idiom "the small hours (of the night)" refers to the early hours of the morning, specifically referring to the time between midnight and dawn. It suggests a time when most people are asleep and there is a stillness or quietness in the surroundings.
  • a small cog in a large wheel The idiom "a small cog in a large wheel" refers to a person who has a relatively unimportant or insignificant role in a larger system or organization. It implies that their contribution or impact is minor, similar to a small gear (cog) in a much bigger machine (wheel).
  • be thankful for small mercies The idiom "be thankful for small mercies" means that one should appreciate and express gratitude for small, insignificant blessings or fortunate events, even when faced with challenging circumstances or disappointments. It emphasizes finding joy and appreciation in the little things, rather than solely focusing on major achievements or successes.
  • the wee small hours The idiom "the wee small hours" refers to the early hours of the morning, specifically between midnight and dawn. It emphasizes the period when most people are usually asleep, typically associated with a quiet and peaceful time.
  • the small hours (of the night/morning) The idiom "the small hours (of the night/morning)" refers to the late hours of the night or the early hours of the morning, typically referring to the period between midnight and dawn. It implies the time when most people are asleep, and the world is quiet and calm.
  • small potatoes The idiom "small potatoes" is generally used to describe something that is insignificant, unimportant, or of little value. It refers to a situation, person, or thing that is considered to be trivial or not worth much attention.
  • the small hours The idiom "the small hours" refers to the early hours of the morning, specifically the period between midnight and dawn. It implies a time when most people are sleeping and the world is quiet and still.
  • mills of God grind slowly, yet they grind exceeding small The idiom "mills of God grind slowly, yet they grind exceeding small" means that justice may take a long time, but it eventually catches up with everyone. It suggests that although the process of fairness or retribution may be slow, it is thorough and unfailing in its eventual outcome.
  • a small fortune The idiom "a small fortune" is typically used to refer to a significant amount of money or wealth, especially when it is considered excessive or more than expected. It conveys the idea that the amount discussed is substantial but not necessarily as large as a literal fortune.
  • small fortune The idiom "small fortune" refers to a significant amount of money, usually with an emphasis on the fact that it is considered a relatively large sum in the context of a specific situation or compared to what is expected. It implies that the amount of money mentioned is not negligible or insignificant.
  • *thankful for small blessings The idiom "*thankful for small blessings" means to be grateful for the little things in life that bring comfort, joy, or relief, even amidst challenges or difficult circumstances. It emphasizes finding gratitude and appreciation in small, often overlooked aspects of everyday life.
  • be on the cold, small, etc. side The idiom "be on the cold, small, etc. side" means to be slightly lacking in warmth, size, intensity, or some other quality. It suggests that something is just below the desired level of a particular attribute.
  • do something in a big/small way To do something in a big/small way means to do something on a large or grand scale (big way) or on a small or modest scale (small way). It refers to the extent or magnitude in which an action or task is carried out.
  • it's no/small/little wonder... It is not surprising; it is easily understood or explained.
  • the small/early hours The small/early hours refer to the hours of the night or early morning, typically between midnight and dawn. This idiom is often used to describe a time of day when most people are asleep and the world is quiet and peaceful.
  • on the big, small, high, etc. side The idiom "on the big, small, high, etc. side" means slightly larger, smaller, higher, etc. than average or expected. It suggests that something falls slightly outside the usual range in terms of size, amount, or measurement.
  • (it’s) no/little/small wonder (that)… This idiom is used to express that something is not surprising or difficult to understand given the circumstances or situation. It is often used to explain why something happened or behaved in a certain way.

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