Diminutive facts for kids

A diminutive is a special form of a word. It's used to show that something is small. It can also show affection or make something sound cute. Think of it like adding "little" to a word.

Diminutives in English

Diminutives are very common in the English language. You probably use them every day without even realizing it! For example, "undies" is a shorter, cuter way to say underwear. And "movie" comes from "moving picture."

Here are some common ways we make diminutives in English:

• Adding -ey, -ie, or -y: This is a very popular way to make words sound smaller or more affectionate.
  • dearie (from dear)
  • doggy (from dog)
  • kitty (from cat)

• Adding -ette: This ending often means "small version of."
  • diskette (a small disk)
  • cigarette (a small cigar)
  • kitchenette (a small kitchen)
  • suffragette (a woman who fought for the right to vote)

• Adding -let: This ending also means "small."
  • piglet (a young pig)
  • chicklet (a small chick)
  • applet (a small application or program)
  • eyelet (a small hole or eye)
  • gauntlet (a type of glove)
  • tablet (a small, flat computer)

• Adding -ling: This ending is often used for young animals.
  • duckling (a young duck)
  • gosling (a young goose)

• Using -s(y): This is a common way to make nicknames.
  • "Wills" (from William)
  • Becks (from Beckham)

• Using -a: This is another way to create nicknames.
  • Macca (from McCartney)
  • Gazza (from Gascoigne)

• Using -o: This ending can make words sound more informal.
  • smoko (a short break for smoking or a general break)

See also

In Spanish: Diminutivo para niños