Langimage
English

little

|lit/tle|

A1

/ˈlɪtəl/

small

Etymology
Etymology Information

'little' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'lytel', where 'lyt' meant 'small'.

Historical Evolution

'lytel' changed from Old English to the modern English word 'little'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'small in size', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a small amount or quantity.

There's a little left in the bottle.

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Adjective 1

small in size, amount, or degree.

She has a little dog.

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Adjective 2

young or younger.

My little brother is in kindergarten.

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Adjective 3

insignificant or unimportant.

It's just a little problem.

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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35