# munchkin

/mˈʌntʃkɪn/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/munchkin
Updated: 2026-10-17

## Definition

a very small person or a young child. It is a playful and informal way to talk about someone who is tiny.

For teachers: a person of very small stature or a young child. Often carries a whimsical or affectionate tone, though it can be used dismissively to imply insignificance.

## Examples

- The little munchkin is finally asleep in his crib.
- She looked like a munchkin standing next to the professional basketball players during the photo shoot.

## Usage notes

- Informal and often affectionate; when applied to adults, it may be perceived as patronizing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.