diminutive

C2 · Proficiency Science Technical

adj. describing a word form that shows something is small, young, or liked.

adj. pertaining to or creating a word form that denotes smallness, youth, or affection.

“The word 'booklet' uses a diminutive suffix to show it is a small book.”

“The suffix '-kin' was once a common diminutive marker in Middle English, though it survives today primarily in surnames.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Science Technical

n. a word or name that has been changed to mean 'little' or to show you like someone.

n. a word form or suffix expressing smallness, youth, unimportance, or endearment.

“'Kitty' is a common diminutive for a cat.”

“Many languages use diminutives not just to indicate size, but to convey a sense of intimacy or social closeness between speakers.”