# puny

/ˈpjuni/ (US) · /pjˈuːni/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/puny
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

very small, weak, or not strong enough. You use this to describe something that looks or feels tiny compared to what it should be.

For teachers: small, weak, or lacking in strength or vigor. Often carries a derogatory or dismissive tone when describing physical or mental capacity.

## Examples

- The puny little mouse couldn't open the heavy door.
- The athlete's puny excuse for a workout was barely enough to keep his heart rate up.
- The defense attorney's puny attempt to discredit the witness was met with immediate skepticism by the jury, who had already seen the overwhelming evidence.

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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.