Diminutive
/dɪˈmɪn.jʊ.tɪv/noun
A form or suffix that indicates smallness or a lesser degree.
Did you know?The Latin root 'diminutivus' was used in legal contexts to denote a reduction in status or power, hinting at a magical transformation over time.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
diminutivus
“Causing to lessen or diminish.”
Old French
Old French
diminutif
“A term or suffix indicating smallness.”
14th Century
Middle English
diminutif
“An adjective or noun indicating a smaller version.”
Modern English
English
diminutive
“Relating to or denoting a word or suffix that indicates smallness or lesser degree.”