'minuscule' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'minusculus,' where 'minus' meant 'less' and '-culus' was a diminutive suffix.

'minusculus' transformed into the French word 'minuscule,' and eventually became the modern English word 'minuscule' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'somewhat less,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'extremely small.'