Little Meaning and Definition

Little

Little

Pronunciation

/ˈlɪtəl/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A young child, especially one who is young enough to be dependent on others or needing parental care.

Examples

  • The little girl played with her dolls.
  • The little one slept peacefully in the crib.

Synonyms

  • Kid
  • Child

Antonyms

  • Adult
  • Older

Etymology

The word “little” has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages, with the earliest recorded use dating back to the 10th century.

Usage Notes

When referring to a young child, “little” is often used as a term of endearment, conveying affection and warmth.

Cultural References

The phrase “Little Miss Sunshine” is a popular title for films and musicals, often referring to a young girl’s journey to self-discovery.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • Little hands
  • Little feet

Related Words or Phrases

  • Kiddo
  • Tot

Collocations

  • Little one
  • Little boy
  • Little girl

Frequency of Use

“Little” is a common term in everyday language, with a high frequency of use in informal and formal contexts.

Common Misspellings

  • Littlee

Related Words